Decision to close Arriva Guildford bus depot "disgraceful" says union

Trade union Unite has branded the decision by Arriva to close it's Guildford bus depot as "disgraceful".

Last week the operator said it made the "extremely difficult" decision as declining passenger numbers had meant services were no longer sustainable.

16 routes, using approximately 50 buses, will be affected across Surrey, including services to Woking and Camberley.

Unite said it is understood services will cease operating in mid-December.

Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: “What we see here is a blatant disregard by Arriva for the people of Surrey.

"Passengers and a loyal workforce have been abandoned by this huge company that has no regard for this vital public service - and the reality is it is all too easy for them to simply walk away. This has to stop. Making profits from passengers must come with a responsibility to provide a service.

"Arriva's disgraceful conduct has left bus users in the lurch and their daily journeys in turmoil."

Surrey County Council says it is closely monitor the situation.

The Council said it was hoping other companies might want to fulfil the services instead.

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• unite
• Arriva
• bus services
• surrey
• surrey county council