Calls for rethink over new bus route proposals

PASSENGERS have urged a regional operator to listen to local voices amid proposed changes to a key bus route.

- By BILL EDGAR

Arriva is currently consulting on plans to revise the X22 service between Peterlee and Middlesbrough.

Two options under consideration include maintaining the route as it is, with links to Stockton and the University Hospital of North Tees Hospital, or revising the service to connect it to Newton Aycliffe and Darlington instead.

News of the proposal has led to one county councillor warning that residents are being forced to make an “impossible” decision.

Arriva said the survey will help it understand how to improve the service. Megan Hall, who works at North Tees Hospital, said the direct link is vital to the local community.

“It's very worrying that this has even become a topic for discussion,” she said. “I often use the bus to travel to and from work, as do many other colleagues.

“The X22 will also be used for students going to Teesside University, teams who work at Tesco's in Stockton and I'm sure many other places of work. Having to choose between the two routes seems awfully unfair and somewhat crazy.