Itchen Valley campaign launched to improve rural bus service

Stagecoach bus running through Winchester city centre <i>(Image: Contributed)</i>
Stagecoach bus running through Winchester city centre (Image: Contributed)
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Residents in the Itchen Valley are being encouraged to have their say in a new campaign to improve a rural bus service.

The community-led effort focuses on the Stagecoach 67 route, which connects Winchester with nearby villages.

An online tool called My Ideal Bus Journey was recently launched to gather feedback from passengers, as well as identify service gaps and priorities.

Cllr David Wolfe said: "The Itchen Valley Parish Council is encouraging all residents to take a few minutes to complete the online tool and make their views known.

"Your feedback matters, and together we can make the case for a better bus service in the Itchen Valley."

Stagecoach bus runnning through Winchester city centreStagecoach bus running through Winchester city centre (Image: Contributed)

The 67 bus currently runs through Kings Worthy, Easton, Martyr Worthy, Alresford, Cheriton, and Petersfield; however, residents say it is often unreliable and lacks service in the evenings and on Sundays.

Data collected will support calls for timetable changes, increased frequency, and potential route adjustments.

The campaign is also considering broader issues such as reducing reliance on cars, improving access for all age groups, and exploring the use of zero-emission vehicles.

Results will be shared with Hampshire County Council as part of a review of bus services in the Itchen Valley, in the hopes of establishing clearer service standards and improved accountability.

To support the campaign, visit myidealbusjourney.org.uk/active-campaigns/campaigns?link=000005

What do you think about the Service 67? Let us know in the comments below.

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