London night buses could be cut back with the extension of services on the Underground network, it has been claimed.
The Transport Salaried Staff’s Association has suggested this week that bus routes across the capital could be slashed in favour of the night Tube services.
Serious safety concerns have been raised but Transport for London has rubbished the claims.
However, it will soon launch a consultation on changes to be made.
Bus stops often allow people to stop close to their home, cutting the distance they must walk to their door in the dark.
Local London Assembly Member Jennette Arnold OBE has called on TfL to now pledge it will protect night bus services.
Ms Arnold also raised concerns about the impact on disabled passengers as many night tube stations do not include step free access unlike London’s buses.
She said: “Whilst the night tube will be a great help to many people, night buses will still have an important part to play in London’s night-time transport system.
“At night more than ever it is important that people are able to get as close to home as possible. Whilst for some the closest stop will be a tube station, the majority of people will still rely on the night buses to deliver them safely to their street.
“What we don’t want to see is night buses cut back leaving people walking long distances home from tube stations late at night.
“TfL should also carefully consider the impact on disabled people.”
Night Tube services will be trialled in some areas from September this year.
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 The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.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 hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel