news story

9th April 2009

MP Welcomes Lifeline for Hallen Residents

Northavon MP Steve Webb has welcomed plans to offer a lifeline shuttle bus to Hallen residents who may otherwise be cut off when major roadworks start in the area. The MP has also welcomed the decision to delay the road closure to give residents more chance to make arrangements to cope with the disruption.

Steve Webb had already been in contact with South Gloucestershire Council about the lack of notice about the planned closure and had contacted the local NHS about residents being unable to get to their GP. He has now received information from Bristol PCT as follows:

"The start date of the Hallen Road closure has been delayed from the 20th April to the 5th May in acknowledgement of the short notice that was given to residents. Residents have been kept informed of the closure and advised of alternative travel arrangements via an initial letter from Network Rail, and a meeting on the 1st April with representatives from South Gloucestershire Council and Network Rail that was open to all residents to attend. A second meeting is due to be held on the 21st April which is again open to all.

"I have spoken to Deborah Elliott at Network Rail, who informs me that there will be a shuttle bus, paid for by Network Rail and organised by South Gloucestershire Council, which will run several times a day between Hallen and Henbury. This bus has been provided in acknowledgement of the fact that the alternative route for pedestrians and cyclists is unfortunately unfeasibly long. The bus will be free of charge, and will allow Hallen residents to access their GP, and other services, in Henbury. The exact timetable of the shuttle bus is due to be finalised in the next few days, and will be made public as soon as it is agreed".

The PCT added that GP practices will be sent a copy of the shuttle bus timetable when it has been prepared.

Commenting, Steve Webb said:

"Many Hallen residents have been in contact with me about the problems that will be caused by these major road works. I am pleased that the start date has been put back and also that a shuttle bus is to be put in place. These are things that should have been arranged between Network Rail and the Council at the outset, but I am glad that progress is now being made towards reducing the disruption which will inevitably be caused".