Proposed closure of Arriva bus depot in Guildford

The company said the operation had become "unsustainable"

Author: Carol MusgravePublished 7th Oct 2021
Last updated 7th Oct 2021

The Arriva bus depot in Guildford could be closing due to a decline in passenger numbers.

A spokesperson for the operator told Greatest Hits it is proposing the closure as the operation had become "unsustainable."

They said numbers had been dwindling even before the Covid pandemic.

The company said the decision was extremely difficult, and it is looking to safeguard jobs by re-deploying the workforce elsewhere.

Arriva said they are working with Surrey County Council on alternative options for bus services for the local community.

Its statement in full:

“We can confirm Arriva is proposing closure of our depot in Guildford. We are now working with our trade unions partners and our Guildford employees on options available, as we look to safeguard jobs and re-deploy as many people as possible.

“Decisions like this are extremely difficult and are not taken lightly, however Arriva Guildford has unfortunately experienced ongoing decline in passenger numbers over recent years, even prior to COVID19, and despite every effort to achieve efficiencies, our Guildford operation is no longer sustainable.

“Arriva will be offering every support to our Guildford employees and we continue to work closely with Surrey County Council to explore alternative options, which could safeguard services for the local community.”

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