Word has reached me that Stagecoach bosses are seriously concerned about the 34 bus service (Ramsgate to Margate, via Westwood Cross and QEQM). Apparently, it’s making a significant loss, and that has got to put its future at risk.
As one of your Northwood councillors, and a regular bus user, I find this deeply worrying. The 34 is the only route that runs through Newington and Northwood, six days a week (Mondays to Saturdays), from early morning into the evening. It connects us with vital shopping, services and social opportunities. If it’s cut, runs less frequently, or disappears altogether, the impact on our community will be enormous.
This issue has already been raised at Ramsgate Town Council. We’re writing to Stagecoach to explore how we can help keep the 34 running every 30 minutes, as it does now.
In the meantime, there’s something we can all do: use it.
Personally, I’ve started making a point of catching the 34 to Westwood Cross, even though the Loop might shave a couple of minutes off the journey time. What’s 2 minutes and 52 seconds in a life of, in my case, 71 years? (That’s a rhetorical question, by the way.)
OK, so the car may be quicker. But it’s also more expensive, more stressful and don’t get me started on the parking.
And if you do see me on the bus, feel free to say hello and bend my ear about potholes, bin collections, or any other local issues that you feel strongly about.
Let’s all do what we can. Together, we might just be able to get Stagecoach to keep the 34 bus as it is, or maybe even better! We all know it is a vital resource for Ramsgate and beyond.
Written by:
Councillor Jim Driver
Councillor for Northwood Ward