A NEW extended bus timetable has received the enthusiastic backing of councillors who believe it will provide a real boost to Bexhill and the surrounding areas, including Sidley and Pebsham.
It means that buses will now run until nearly midnight, enabling those who want to travel to Bexhill and enjoy a meal or go to an evening show at the De La Warr Pavilion, for instance, will no longer have to rely on driving into town or using a taxi.
The service, run by Stagecoach, with the backing of East Sussex County Council and some funding from central government, is now up and running.
Labour councillor Christine Bayliss, who represents Bexhill Central ward, is among those who have been calling for an extended bus service.
As she joined several other councillors for a jaunt on the new service, she said: “I have campaigned for this for a long time.
“It is a key part of the bus improvement plan and will be funded for two years. However, the message is clear… people must use it or lose it.
“This is now the perfect opportunity to make the most of what our town has to offer, such as attending the De La Warr’s sunset screenings without having to worry about how to get there and make the return trip home.
“I know that Stewart Drew at the De La Warr is absolutely thrilled that the new service has been launched.”
Councillor Sam Coleman, who represents Sidley, also enthusiastically backs the new service. He said: “This will really open up the night time economy and is a huge boost for the area.
“At last we have a service that can be used until late in the evening and it is cheap to use it too. Some kids in Sidley have never seen the sea, which is really sad. This is a great initiative and I am sure it will prove extremely popular.”
Those sentiments were echoed by fellow Sidley councillor Fazlul Chowdury who added: “This ensures that Sidley can have a real connection to Bexhill and I am sure the extended hours buses will run will prove to be a resounding success.”
Labour councillor Mark Legg, who represents Bexhill Old Town and Worsham, was also on board the bus and said: “This extended service was sorely needed. A clean and affordable bus service is absolutely vital for local residents.
“It will also provide job opportunities for those who want to work in the evening in pubs and restaurants for example.”
Independent councillor Hazel Timpe, who represents Bexhill Sackville ward, said: “This extended service is finally happening and about time too.
“It will benefit all sectors of our society, especially those who don’t drive and young people as well. I am sure it will be warmly welcomed.”
Bexhill News joined the councillors on a journey which took in both Sidley and Pebsham. Editor Kim Mayo said: “Despite the atrocious weather the service was excellent and is sure to be successful.
“It needs to be embraced and used regularly, especially by those who may not travel into Bexhill regularly in the evening because of concerns over parking or having an alcoholic drink with a meal before driving home.
“This new service is the perfect alternative to our over reliance on cars when it comes to local journeys and I can only agree with the councillors also on board who all welcomed the extended bus timetable.”
