Working closely with the operator, KCC's Public Transport Team has made arrangements to replace two routes that were earmarked to end. These are:
- Service 9: Ramsgate, Minster and Monkton (Monday to Saturday off-peak service)
- Service 32: Minnis Bay and Margate (Monday to Saturday)
KCC prioritised support for routes where communities faced losing all bus provision, and where school pupils could have been left without a practical way of travelling to school. However, with limited funding available, the council has not been able to support routes where services are only being reduced or where alternative bus services are still available.
Supported by Government Bus Grant Funding, KCC already invests around £13 million each year to support around 150 bus services across Kent that would not otherwise operate on a commercial basis.
While bus companies decide which commercial services they operate, KCC works to protect important local connections where it can and has moved quickly to secure replacement arrangements where the impact on residents would be greatest.
The replacements for Services 9 and 32 have initially been secured for six months. During this period, KCC will monitor passenger numbers and assess the longer-term viability of the routes, while also reviewing how services can be delivered as efficiently as possible alongside other bus services in the area.
“As soon as we became aware that these routes were at risk, we worked with the operator to find a solution and ensure people were not left without a bus service.”
Spencer Dixon, KCC Deputy Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport, said: "The withdrawal of these services would have had a significant impact on communities across Thanet, particularly for residents who rely on buses to get to work, school, appointments and other essential services.
"As soon as we became aware that these routes were at risk, we worked with the operator to find a solution and ensure people were not left without a bus service.
"We've been able to protect important links between Ramsgate, Minster, Monkton, Minnis Bay and Margate. While we cannot replace every commercial service that is withdrawn, we will continue to focus our support where it is needed most and where it will have the greatest benefit for local residents."
This year KCC has also stepped in to arranged alternative services for routes serving residents in East Malling, East Peckham, Kingswood, Boughton Monchelsea and Grafty Green.
