On the right route 

We have taken a different approach to Labour regarding the resolution of the W12 route issue and this was quite clearly demonstrated in local publications.

We support positive “can do” solutions where an objective analysis has been prepared that allows us to consider all relevant parties so that a long-term sustainable solution can be implemented.

A petition is confrontational and does not address the root cause of the issue, which is namely roadworks and issues with roads in Walthamstow.

The petition will merely reinstate the problem that TfL want to resolve and this is not in the interests of anyone.

Therefore, a three-pronged approach is necessary, not a shouty-mouthed protest that will achieve nothing except stop the real issues coming to the front.

In short, we are for a “jaw jaw” approach where we have challenged the decision made by TfL. 

We have proposed an alternative solution of traffic curtailment. In essence, the route length is sacrificed for route frequency.

This has been met with encouragement from Wanstead and South Woodford residents here and from the bus drivers that I frequently speak to on the route, who have supported our approach.

Given that I tabled a question at January’s council meeting regarding what actions Labour-run Redbridge is taking with the W12; spoken to colleagues at Labour-run Waltham Forest regarding this (a question is going into February’s council here) and tabled a response back to Tfl (London is now under a Labour Mayor), We have been open and transparent with our viewpoint with Labour, in order to secure the optimal outcome for our residents, not petty point-scoring. 

I note that only one of the Wanstead Village Labour candidates was present at council, (and he did not even manage to ask a question about the bus route) which just shows their true level of interest in the issue as nothing more than a “dog whistle” on the stall on the High Street.

Steve Wilks, chairman of the Wanstead Safer Neighbourhood Panel