A LOCAL MP is calling for urgent action surrounding changes to bus routes which has left people unable to afford the journey.

Ben Maguire, the Liberal Democrat MP for North Cornwall, has demanded urgent action from the Department for Transport following widespread concern over cuts to the number 11 and number 12 bus routes in his constituency.

At the end of April, it was announced that the Go Cornwall Bus number 12 service would be undergoing some adjustments. The route services towns across North Cornwall, including Bude and Launceston, with a connection into Plymouth. However, following a reshuffle of services, the route has been split into three.

The new 12 bus now runs from Plymouth to Callington, while the 76A serves Callington to Launceston, and finally the 76 runs from Launceston to Bude.

However, these changes have not received a positive reception from residents, with many concerned about the financial impact and the prospect of delays, resulting in missed connections.

Due to the route’s fragmentation, passengers are also now expected to pay three fares, instead of the single fare previously required.

Speaking in the House of Commons during a debate on the Bus Services (No.2) Bill, the MP highlighted how routes like the number 12, which previously took passengers directly from Bude to Plymouth, and was a vital method of reaching Derriford hospital, has been fragmented into multiple, disconnected services, burdening passengers with higher fares and unmanageable travel times.

As a result of the changes, hundreds of residents have put their name to a petition, calling for the route to be reinstated.

The petition explained: “This adjustment not only adds unnecessary stress and inconvenience, but it also increases travel costs, as passengers are now being charged twice for what was once a single journey. In these tough economic times, many of us cannot afford the additional expenses.

“Moreover, this change contributes to extended journey times. Many passengers are experiencing delays that result in them being late for work, causing distress and potential occupational repercussions. There is also a looming concern of being left stranded at Callington, especially during off-peak hours when connections may not be as frequent or reliable.

“Restoring the direct 12 bus route as a single continuous journey is crucial for ensuring timely and affordable transportation for residents of Bude, Launceston, and surrounding areas. “

Now, Mr Maguire has also written to Transport Minister Simon Lightwood requesting a meeting to explore emergency options, and to push for ring-fenced funding to restore vital rural bus links.

Commenting, MP Ben Maguire said: "I’ve heard from constituents who are breast cancer patients who can no longer afford the taxi journey to hospital. And from workers who face sky-high taxi fares just to get to their jobs.

"These routes are essential for communities that have been neglected for too long, and I look forward to meeting with the Transport Minister to put the case forward for these constituents who've now been stranded."