Councillors in Holgate have signalled their dismay at the sight of new bus stops being installed in Hamilton Drive for the number 16 bus service, despite the fact First York is supposed to be trialling an ‘hail and ride' service on this stretch of the route. Councillors first learnt of the development last week after residents were written to by way of consultation on the new bus stops. But Councillor Denise Bowgett is far from impressed, saying:

"This is probably one of the most farcical things I have witnessed since I was elected last year. Council officers have said the bus stops are probably temporary, but would you make alterations to a kerb to accommodate buses if it was a temporary measure? In my opinion the council and First have decided to re-route this bus away from Hollybank despite their insistence that they are consulting on this proposal. It makes a complete mockery of any such consultation".

And councillors are now seeking answers on how much the temporary measures will cost. Holgate councillor Sonja Crisp says she thinks the impression given by officers is that the decision is pretty well made:

"It could still take 6 months before proper conclusions can be drawn from the consultation. Officers say they don't want to send signals that the reinstatement of the Holly Bank loop is unlikely or unimportant, but have to remain realistic and take a pragmatic approach. I need say no more on that - it tells its own story".

Councillor James Alexander added:

"Residents are being taken for a ride here, but sadly not the one they want. I'm sure they would be more respectful of this decision if the council and First just came forward and said the Holly Bank loop is going, and gave the reasons why. It seems they won't be afforded this courtesy".