Bus services in Nantwich and Crewe are almost back to normal two weeks after the collapse of one of Cheshire East’s biggest operators, GHA Coaches.
The company ceased operating on July 13, leaving Cheshire East Council’s transport management company TSS to deal with a major challenge.
One key route – the 44 Crewe to Nantwich via Shavington service – remains affected.
Cheshire East has arranged for the 39 service from Crewe to be re-routed to cover part of this.
The vast majority of other routes run by GHA are operating again, although not to exact timetables as before.
Five other operators have also stepped in to fill the void.
And some are now bidding to take over those routes on a permanent basis.
Cheshire East says it intends to re-introduce the ‘Flexi Rider’ service in Crewe from August 1.
This means groups and individuals unable to access evening bus services can pre-book journeys to suit their needs and requirements.
GHA carried more than 3,400 passengers each day.
Within 24 hours of the collapse, the council’s Transport Service Solutions (TSS) had restored more than 75 per cent of affected services.
Cllr David Brown, Cabinet member for highways and transport, said: “This was an extremely challenging experience for TSS and I would like to thank all the staff who did such a brilliant job in restoring services so quickly.
“I would also like to thank the other operators who stepped in to help cover this emergency situation.
“I am pleased we have had very few complaints from our residents – in fact many people have used social media to praise the way the council responded to this.”
Travellers seeking up-to-date information should visit the council website here.
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