TRANSPORT for Greater Manchester (TfGM) has announced a bus route destined for closure will be partially kept running in the morning to service a Sale high school.


Last week Messenger reported Arriva will axe the 19A bus routes and reduce the frequency of the 16 route at the end of this month due to insufficient passenger numbers.


But since then Transport for Greater Manchester has agreed to pay for a morning bus service so that children can still get to Manor High School.


Cllr Mark Aldred, vice-chairman of Transport for Greater Manchester Committee, said: “I questioned Arriva about this decision at a committee meeting just a few weeks ago.


“We work very closely with the bus operators and are in discussions with Arriva to ensure this type of bus service cut does not become a pattern across its commercial network.


“Now more than ever our budgets are under huge pressure, and we have to prioritise areas that have no commercial transport links for funding.”


St Mary’s ward councillor, Rob Chilton, originally criticised TfGM for its lack of action over the proposed closures.


Though pleased with the news, Cllr Chilton believes there are still issues that need addressing, particularly the needs of other residents in isolated areas.
“I am pleased by that,” he said.


“One of my major concerns was the children having to stand out in the open in the winter, so I am grateful to TfGM for that.


“While TfGM has to make sure there are services, part of its responsibility is to make sure that some isolated areas – like Sale West – get a decent service.


“I am still concerned that it does still look like the residents there will be disadvantaged when seeking employment.


“I do understand their position and it could be looked at further, but I am particularly pleased they are taking it back. It is better than nothing.”