Several bus routes in Harlow, Epping and Northweald could come to an end on Friday after an operator was forced into a ‘dismal’ financial position by the coronavirus pandemic.
Galleon Travel, which provides Trustybus and Central Connect routes will cease to operate from Friday, unless it receives “more support” from Essex County Council, company officials said.
Based in Roydon, Galleon Travel, has been providing bus and coach services since 2009, however the outbreak of Covid-19 has led to “dismal times”.
All Galleon’s overseas coach trips have been cancelled meaning a “significant loss of income.”
Director Megan Baker said: “We have tried everything to keep our service going but this really is the last straw. If we don’t get help by next Friday, April 3 we will have to stop our service. It’s a heart-breaking decision but we will have no choice.
“We are already operating at a loss and all we are asking is some help from Essex and Hertfordshire County Councils so we can keep supporting the local community.”
Essex County Council has urged Galleon not to withdraw the route without exploring “every possible avenue” to keep the service running for key workers and essential travel.
A spokesperson for Galleon Travel said: “The company has been fighting to keep its bus services going particularly the council routes that enable Harlow and Hertfordshire’s key workers to keep on the move.
“The high cost of diesel needed to keep the buses running has become an issue as the fuel company is demanding a higher tariff or it will stop providing the company with their lifeline to keep buses on the roads.
“Over 60 local people will be out of work and with no other local bus service provider Harlow and Hertfordshire people will come to a grinding halt.”
The company is calling for funding support from Essex County Council and has launched an online petition urging action to save the services.
Harlow MP Robert Halfon has put his weight behind the cause.
He said: “'We need every possible support for buses and key workers at this time of national emergency. I have signed the petition and written to the council as to see what support can be offered. I understand that the Transport Secretary will be announcing more support for buses soon.
“I thank all the bus workers, staff and drivers for all they do and for notifying me about the petition."
An Essex County Council spokesperson said: “As of Monday, March 23, 2020, the government advised residents to travel only when essential, and only use public transport if you have to. As a result of people responding positively to the government’s advice, there has been significant reductions in passengers travelling on bus services nationally.
“Both Essex County Council (ECC) and central government already invest significant sums into the network; including the Bus Service Operator Grant which central government has confirmed it will continue to pay at a level preceding the coronavirus outbreak.
“Additionally, the Department for Transport announced last week that it has developed a specific support package for bus operators which is due to be announced shortly.
“ECC remains committed to deliver as many essential journeys as possible in this challenging time and is working closely with all operators to enable this.”
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