High Peak MP Robert Largan has this week reacted to concern from passengers that the 358 bus route (from Hayfield to Stockport via New Mills and Marple), and the 237 route (from Glossop to Ashton, via Hadfield and Tintwistle), might be downgraded due to a public transport review taking place on the other side of the County boundary in Greater Manchester. 

Both the 237 and 358 are vital bus services which are lifelines to local residents.

Robert contacted the services’ operator, Stagecoach, to seek urgent clarification of the future of the two services.

In their response, Stagecoach stated that bus franchising reforms being undertaken within the neighbouring county of Greater Manchester mean that they are working with Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) and Derbyshire County Council to develop a new bus network.

Robert Largan MP commented:

“I am pleased that Stagecoach have confirmed they intend to apply to continue running the 358 and 237 bus routes under the new Greater Manchester bus franchising model.

“Nevertheless, I have requested an urgent meeting with Transport for Greater Manchester to garner more information and seek reassurances that the frequency of these two critical services won’t be reduced, as they are utterly relied upon by local residents, who have no viable alternatives.

“I’m very pleased that current indications are that the 358 and 237 services will continue past the end of October, and I will be doing everything I can before then to ensure this happens without a reduction in service.”