NAILSWORTH Town Council is calling for action after it says changes to bus services have left the people of Nortonwood feeling cut off and isolated.

New timetables came into effect on November 2, with the 93 route to Gloucester being scrapped and replaced by a 63 service from Nailsworth Primary School.

The 92 used to pick up passengers around the estate, and the council says that the loss of this service over a large and steep area has caused a great deal of distress, especially amongst residents with limited mobility.

Councillors Anne Elliott, Emma Sims and Steve Robinson held a meeting with a member of Gloucestershire County Council’s Integrated Transport Unit to discuss the service changes.

Cllr Elliott said: “This is quite a large estate on a steep hill, and people have relied heavily on the buses going round the estate for years. Withdrawing the service without any warning or consultation has caused a great deal of distress.

“I have suggested to Stagecoach that it would be possible for alternate buses to go round the estate without jeopardising the connection from Stroud to Cheltenham.

“The council representative asked that we allow him a couple of weeks to try and negotiate with Stagecoach on our behalf.

“If he cannot secure a satisfactory outcome, Nailsworth Town Council together with Forest Green Residents’ Association will arrange an open meeting where residents can challenge this.”

Will Windsor Clive, county cabinet member for transport, said: “Some residents have been affected by the decision to adjust a number of commercial routes.

After positive discussions with residents and local councillors about the issue, we have been able to provide a ‘daily shopper’ service, so that people affected, particularly those with limited mobility, are still able to get out and about.

“We will continue looking into the matter to see if there are any adjustments that could be made to services.”