AN emergency interim bus service between Owslebury and Winchester is to become permanent.

Xelabus surrendered their contract after a proposed retiming of the buses was rejected by Hampshire County Council.

The service was quickly put out to tender and Stagecoach won the new contract on the basis of a three-day-a-week service, which civic chiefs now say will remain.

A five-day-per week schools service will be provided during term time.

Cllr Seán Woodward, executive member for economy, transport and environment, said: “In considering the longer term replacement contract I have taken into account the usage and limited funds available.

“Passenger numbers were low with an average of 10 passengers per trip and surveys showed the majority of journeys were for shopping. To return to a five days a week service would result in the contract price increasing by 53 per cent.

“I am therefore content that the current school service and three day a week shopper service offers a regular and reliable bus service that meets current demand and should be maintained.”

In September Owslebury Parish Council expressed concern that the village could become “only for the rich”, while Age UK said that “any curtailment of bus services is going to be really, really difficult for the elderly.”

On Tuesday Michael Cleary, parish council clerk, said: “Owslebury Parish Council understands what the county has done and we are going to work with them to find other forms of community transport, so that the village does not become isolated.”