Madam,

Re: impending loss of Aberystwyth’s park and ride service.

As I understand it, this invaluable service is to cease at the end of July this year. This service is not just a service it is a necessity, along with the Park Avenue car park which it services.

Without this reliable service, young and old alike will not have regular access to the main entrance at Bronglais Hospital and its outpatients services. This bus service enables us all to access Great Darkgate Street with the facilities of GP surgeries, banks, opticians, building societies and food and clothing outlets.

When I have used this service I have heard nothing but praise for it. It is one of the, if not the most valuable services we have.

I understand it is funded by the county council, town council and the health board. I request that they all reconsider or, in my opinion, the withdrawal of the service will be detrimental to us all and will affect the footfall in the town, with the financial consequences to the traders, and result in an increase in non-attendances at Bronglais Hospital.

This decision will undoubtedly result in savings for the three authorities. It would be interesting to know if this is going to lead to a reduction in our community charge as it is deprivation of a service which is a pleasure to use.

If savings are required, I am sure there are other services which could be curtailed in place of what is a necessity for young and old alike and will be financially detrimental to businesses in Aberystwyth.

Yours etc

Margaret Hands

Talybont.