A revived bus service will be of no use to commuters travelling to work in Colchester town centre.
The 3 bus, which runs from Hythe Tesco to town via Longridge Park and Harwich Road, is due to be resurrected next month by Hedingham Omnibus.
The move has been hailed as a victory for protesters, who clamoured for the service's return when it was axed by rival firm Network Colchester in November.
But the Gazette can reveal that the earliest weekday bus does not leave until 8.56am - making it impossible for people working a normal 9am to 5pm day to take advantage.
The late start will hinder campaigners in their fight to keep the service, as passenger numbers must be high enough for the reinstated bus to make a profit when a temporary Essex County Council subsidy is withdrawn in September.
Donald McGregor, of Hedingham Omnibus, agreed the timetable would not benefit many potential users. But he said it was the only way to make the service viable in the short-term.
Published Wednesday, March 2, 2005
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article