Lib Dems pledge to separate buses & pedestrians

12.00.00am UTC (GMT +0000) Thu 22nd Feb 2007

Roger Hunneman is campaigning to get the buses taken out of Northbrook Street

Building on their promise to deliver something for everyone in West Berkshire, Liberal Democrats have this week unveiled their latest pledge - to take buses out of pedestrianised areas.

This promise follows months of complaints from Newbury town centre shoppers who have been unable to fully enjoy the benefits of pedestrianised Northbrook Street because of their ongoing fears that someone will be injured whilst the buses persist in sharing this space. This situation should not be allowed to continue.

Keith Woodhams, Liberal Democrat transport spokesman, commented:

"We have long been concerned by reports from pedestrians and bus passengers alike of 'near misses'. The situation cannot continue as it is only a matter of time before someone is hurt, which is why Liberal Democrats are making a commitment to provide an alternative route for the buses which will remove the risk they pose to those on foot."

Victoria Councillor Roger Hunneman added:

"This would be a move forward for the town centre and I am pleased Liberal Democrats are responding so positively to public feeling on this issue. Tory-run West Berkshire Council are responsible for the decision on the buses' route, but so far they have refused to listen to local people's concerns."