Transport for London's 424 bus route. PICTURE: DAVID HOWARD
Hammersmith & Fulham Council’s campaign to protect the important 424 bus route achieved an important result this week when Transport for London finally agreed to meet with residents to hear their concerns.
Earlier this year Transport for London (TfL) proposed changes to the 424 bus service, which would result in several stops used by residents in Sands End being missed out. Those stops are vital lifelines for resident, including those in sheltered accommodation.
After pressure from H&F TfL has now agreed to hold two drop-in surgeries in early December to discuss the plans. Dates and times will be set shortly.
“News of this proposed route change has caused dismay and distress to many of our residents, and we are working hard to convince TfL to drop these ill-conceived plans. As part of that fight, we have been lobbying TfL to commit to meeting with those who will be affected by changes to this critical bus route,” said Cllr Lisa Homan, H&F Council’s Cabinet Member for Housing.
“Its important that as many residents as possible who use the 424 route attend these surgeries so their views can be heard”.
The 424 bus currently runs from Craven Cottage and goes on to Putney High Street where it terminates. Under the revised route it would terminate in Wandsworth, cutting out the direct link to Putney Bridge and Putney High Street and missing out stops used by many H&F residents, including those in sheltered accommodation complexes on the route.
Many residents have been in touch with the council to express their dissatisfaction, stating that this route is the only way they can access shops, GP surgeries and other essential services that they rely upon and which allow them to be independent.
The 424 is the only bus route that directly serves Sands End. Under the new proposals, the service will no longer stop at Bagleys Lane, Pearscroft Road, Broughton Road and Byam Street.
Many Sands End residents use the service to access the large supermarket on Townmead Road as well as Putney High Street.
Two drop-in sessions are planned by TfL; One will be for H&F residents at an as-yet undecided venue and date, while Manor Court in Bagley’s Lane will host a session for its residents on Friday 11 December from 3.30pm to 5pm.
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