BUS PASSENGERS 'LEFT OUT IN THE COLD' AT NEW BUS STATION -KRAMER

7.15.56pm GMT Thu 21st Feb 2008

Richmond Park MP Susan Kramer is taking up concerns from local residents about the new interim bus station at Hammersmith.

Buses routes that serve the constituency have been moved into an interim bus shelter, which is exposed to the elements and is not clearly signposted.

Susan Kramer MP commented:

"These new arrangements are a backward step and are simply not satisfactory. Passengers are literally being left out in the cold, as the new bus station is outdoors, providing little protection from the elements, especially the wind."

"The design of the new arrangements makes life difficult for passengers waiting for buses over Hammersmith bridge, as the stops for the bus routes that serve this area are far apart, making it extremely difficult for passengers to get on the first bus that arrives."

"For example, the 209 and the 283 which are the same bus in the morning peak, go to different stops. There is a real safety issue about passengers running between stops."

"Concerns have also been raised about the floor of the covered walkway, as it only has a partial handrail and could become slippery in wet conditions."

"Rapid changes are necessary at the interchange to make it suitable for local people to use. I am calling for an indoor waiting area to be provided, and a hub for buses so that people don't have to run between bus stops."

"I have already met with Richmond Council who like me were not consulted. I am asking Transport for London to meet us at the site and explain themselves."