People have been telling us that they’re really concerned about the cumulative effect of cuts to buses in Hackney, which, for some residents, are the only way of getting around. 

Despite the Council’s objections and the negative impact it will have on many residents who rely on buses to get around the borough, TfL’s decision to withdraw the 48 will leave the 55 as the only direct link between Lea Bridge Road and Shoreditch, leading to more overcrowding at peak times.

Low emission, low cost public transit should be at the heart of London’s attempts to rapidly decarbonise the transport system and improve air quality in our dangerously polluted capital city. Losing bus routes and bus miles represents a backwards step, which is why I have recently written to the Transport Commissioner to inform him Hackney Council will oppose any further cuts to services in the borough that we do not believe are justified.

Nevertheless, we are pleased that TfL listened to our concerns about maintaining a link to Guy’s Hospital from Hackney by extending the 388 to London Bridge and, as I informed the Commissioner, stand ready to support the expansion of TfL’s zero emission bus fleet at the earliest opportunity.