Call to prevent bus cuts

The cash-strapped county council is considering making cuts to the 128 bus service but has insisted no final decisions have been made.

The council wrote to residents and bus users to tell them of possible cuts to a number of bus services which it pays for.

This includes the 128 service which could lose four bus journey in the morning and four in the afternoon.

Lewes district councillor Ian Eiloart said: 'The 128 bus is well-used, particularly at the times when the county is planning to make cuts. 'These cuts would lead to increased traffic congestion and pollution in the town.'

The council has said the reduction in the service is being considered because of 'financial constraints' and the bus will instead be used for journeys to and from Ringmer Community College.

Cllr Ann De Vecchi, leader of the district council, said: 'At a time when local people are making a real effort to get out of their cars and use public transport, it is ridiculous that the county council is planning to cut bus services.'

A petition has also been launched and the cllrs have been collecting signatures on the Malling and Nevill estates.

A spokesman for East Sussex County Council said officers were still considering the service.

The officer's recommendations will be drawn up ahead of a council transport meeting on June 23.

The final decision will be made by Cllr Matthew Lock, the county council's lead councillor for Transport and Environment.

Other routes in and out of Lewes which could be affected are rural services to Chailey, Newick, Barcombe, Plumpton and Kingston.