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Cross River Service Is A Hit
With Commuters
THE launch of Liverpool's 1st 'Bike Bus' has
proved a hit with local commuters and Green Party Councillors who pressed
Merseytravel for the scheme to be introduced. The scheme, which sees a single
decker bus converted to securely take bikes and their riders through the Mersey
Tunnel, was introduced after Green Party Metro Mayor candidate, Tom Crone,
expressed concerns about cyclists being stranded during rail improvement works.
"The rail improvement works are necessary and welcomed but, to begin with
I and my colleagues felt the alternative options for cycling commuters were
sorely lacking." Said Cllr Crone. "I spoke with local cycle
groups, and "cyclemmuters" (cycling commuters) who were worried that
they'd be stranded if the ferries broke down. I'm really pleased to see this
'Bike Bus' in action, and I think it should stay. It can provide a long term
alternative."
Local cyclists only have praise for the "great service" the scheme
has offered, with cycling group, Pedal Away commenting on Twitter that the
'Bike Bus' was a:- "Gr8 experience", and @cyclist13
saying:- "so strange to be on a bus with only 9 seats, but a great drive."
Further praise came for the 'Bike Bus' team, at Arriva NW, Green
Lane, and the dedicated drivers who are happily assisting cyclists boarding, and
alighting the bus.
Councillor Tom Crone is expected to pledge better provisions for cyclists, and
commuters when he launches his Metro Mayor manifesto ahead of the election
campaign. The bus runs once an hour, between Birkenhead and Liverpool, for
the duration of the Loop Line Renewals. |
