AN extra morning bus service will be introduced in the Petersfield area as a result of criticism from the public.
Controversy was caused earlier this year when changes to the townÕs existing services were criticised by people who said too many routes were altered to take in the new Tesco supermarket at The Causeway.
Town councillor Brian Dutton slammed Hampshire County Council for making the decision without consulting local people or East Hampshire District Council.
But after receiving suggestions from local residents the county council has decided to extend a morning bus run to help people get to the town earlier each morning.
The return journey from Froxfield will replace the current 97a school bus service, arriving at The Petersfield School at 8-23 am. The journey will run every day except Sundays and public holidays.
Service 95 already caters for the homeward school run to Froxfield as it passes The Petersfield School at 3-25 pm.
Executive member for environment Keith Estlin said the new service would be good news for commuters living in Froxfield and Steep.
ÒWeÕre pleased to be able to promote and support these additional morning services into Petersfield town centre.
ÒWeÕre responding to public need and IÕm sure residents will appreciate being able to catch an earlier service to the train station.
ÒThe county council is keen to encourage greater use of public transport and I hope residents will make good use of those extra services.Ó
Full details of service 95 and other Stagecoach buses in the area can be obtained by ringing 0845 121 0170. Copies of the new timetable are available from the Tourist Information Centre in Petersfield Library.