Stagecoach has announced changes to its bus operations in the Folkestone area which are expected to see the closure of its Kent Road depot in Cheriton in early September, with operations transferred to the company’s depots at Dover and Ashford. Most employees and services are expected to be retained as part of the re-organisation, which the company said is designed to secure the long-term sustainability of its services in the area, as viability has declined over recent years. It confirmed that it will be talking with Kent County Council about the future of a small number of local bus routes that do not cover their running costs.
Stagecoach says that rising costs, a downward shift in passenger numbers and the impact of traffic congestion have combined to force changes to its bus operation in the area. It is in discussions with employees and the trade union about the options for staff, with the vast majority of the 160 people employed at its Folkestone base eligible for relocation to another depot.
Managing Director of Stagecoach South East Joel Mitchell said: “We have been forced to consider some very difficult options, which we know will have a significant impact on a number of our colleagues in Folkestone and potentially affect some parts of the communities we serve in the area.
“Before and during the pandemic, we did everything we could to protect jobs and bus services, but the impact of such a challenging environment over a number of years means we have reached the point where we have no alternative but to make changes. It’s vital for us that we adapt and find alternatives to passing on costs to our passengers in the form of raising fares. By taking this action I am confident we can start to build a strong base for the future, from which we can expand when circumstances allow.”
The company confirmed that the proposed closure would not affect the current bus station, and said services would continue to operate from the site at Bouverie Square.
