Poor transport links 'a problem'

Rural communities are at risk of missing out on job opportunities and being cut off from services because of the "continuing decline" of local transport services, it was claimed today.

Dr Stuart Burgess, the Government's Rural Advocate, made the comments ahead of a visit today to see how public authorities are taking isolation faced by rural locations in parts of the Midlands.

Dr Burgess is also chairman of the Commission for Rural Communities.

He said recent CRC studies show that rural people are becoming increasingly dependent on cars as a result of the decline in public transport services, with the commission fearing the issue will hit remote communities hard as the nation's economic problems become deeper.

Shropshire County Council today said it was working hard to ensure good transport links are provided to rural parts of the county and said a ShropshireLink scheme launched last November was providing a service to all rural communities.

Dr Burgess, who was due to visit Lincolnshire today, said: "Public transport could be the lifeline for remote communities as competition for jobs increases and as more and more people have to travel to receive advice and benefits.

"Transport is a key concern for rural communities. A lack of mobility can cause real hardship."

Jonathan Hayes, the county council's team leader passenger transport policy, said the authority was recognises the importance of providing access to essential services and facilities for people living in rural areas.

He added: "This demand responsive transport service is available to all rural residents in the county and provides transport to their nearest market town on a minimum of two days each week.

"The implementation of ShropshireLink has helped to retain and increase rural passengers on the local bus network and provide a wider level of service for the subsidy being issued."

By John Kirk