The future of Stoke-on-Trent-based Procters Holidays is in doubt after it stopped providing public and school bus services with immediate effect, including the number 16 ‘scenic route’ between Hanley, Cheddleton and Leek.
The gates to the firm’s Fenton depot were locked on Thursday, March 7, and calls to the company’s offices have not been answered.
Local authorities were forced to seek urgent cover to provide transport for children heading to school and activities such as swimming lessons after being contacted by Procters. Stoke-on- Trent City Council said it has issued emergency contracts to cover the decision by Procters to withdraw its services.
Meanwhile, Staffordshire County Council has confirmed it was made aware of ‘potential issues’ with the company on Tuesday and forced to seek alternatives. The authority said it will continue to use alternative operators while the future of the business remains unclear.
County Councillor Mike Maryon, Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport, said: “We were informed of potential issues with Procters Coaches on Tuesday, and acted immediately to secure alternative transport for the five school runs Procters previously covered.
“By Wednesday we had replaced all coaches, meaning there was no disruption to services.”
