Passenger pressure and poor internet connections persuaded volunteers in Ludlow to produce their own comprehensive bus timetable and secure sponsor funding to make it happen. LES LUMSDON reports.
Ludlow 21, an environmental group, has produced a timetable booklet featuring all of the bus routes into and around the Shropshire town. The idea came about following complaints by residents and visitors that there is insufficient timetable information readily available.
Ludlow 21 and Bus Users Shropshire talk to passengers and know that there is still a market for paper timetables. People at bus stops in Ludlow told them that they are frustrated by the lack of information to enable them to make a choice about an excursion by bus. Traveline does not offer this facility, nor is there a mobile phone signal in some parts of the town to look up six to eight timetables online.
As you might expect, the passenger is also assured if there is an up-to-date timetable at the stop and these two groups have been hard pressed to get timetable cases refreshed.
The only bus company to support the project financially is Arriva Midlands, offering a small donation. It operates one supported service between Ludlow and Knighton wi…