THE effects on local residents of the potential cuts to bus services in and around Haslemere, were heard at a meeting of the town council last week.
Members discussed feedback from local bus users who had been invited to comment on possible cuts by Stagecoach.
It was also an opportunity for councillors to air their concerns and to discuss alternative measures if the cuts go ahead. Information from local bus users had been compiled by Michael Biddiscombe and was read out to members.
The committee heard that the main concern centred on the number 70 from Guildford to Midhurst, which goes through Milford, Witley, Brook, Grayswood, Haslemere, Shottermill and Fernhurst.
Comments included one from a non-driving Witley resident who is reliant on this service for daily journeys to and from Haslemere and for the connection to Chichester.
It was further mentioned that if the service was axed it would prevent his attending evening events in Haslemere because he felt at risk walking on "dangerous and unlit" roads.
Concerns from several residents living in Hindhead, Grayshott and Shottermill who use the same service to travel to and from Haslemere to do voluntary work, were also heard.
Councillors who use local buses also raised concerns. Jean Arrick said that the number 19 generally connected with the trains arriving at Haslemere station and was well used by school children and students.
Janet Smart said that she was a regular user of the number 70 and that the buses were "always full" between Guildford and Godalming.
She said that if the service was withdrawn it could pose problems for people needing to travel to the Royal Surrey County Hospital for appointments.
Members agreed that the possibility of using the Hoppa community transport service specifically to take passengers to the Royal Surrey Hospital should be investigated.
Michael Foster also suggested that Surrey County Council could provide a "dial-a-ride" service.
The town council's findings and suggestions will form part of its formal response to be present to Surrey County Council.
The council hopes the concerns will be taken into account before a final decision is made on the future of the services.
Last week, the county council came in for strong criticism from the Lib Dem prospective parliamentary candidate for SW Surrey, Simon Cordon.
He argued that the decision to cut weekend and Sunday bus routes last January had led to a loss of revenue for Stagecoach, which is why the bus operator is considering axing a number of complete routes in February.