DoI Minister receives Cregneash bus petition

More than 2,000 signatures were recorded but under 1,000 will be valid for Tynwald

A petition containing more than 2,000 signatures against the removal of the bus service to Cregneash has been handed over to the infrastructure minister.

Concerns were raised earlier this year after the Department of Infrastructure requested to cut the service as it was 'no longer financially viable'.

The number 28 also services The Sound.

Petitioner Christa Viohl, and Rushen MHK Juan Watterson, have now presented the document to Michelle Haywood.

Christa told Manx Radio she's optimistic about the developments in the fight for the service:

The petition was backed by Rushen Heritage Trust whose vice chair is Juan Watterson.

He said: "We received regular complaints throughout the summer at the Rushen Heritage Centre in Bridson Street, Port Erin, that Cregneash and The Sound were no longer accessible by public transport. 

"They are very important historically, culturally as well as offering some of the finest sea views and places to see basking sharks, seals and dolphins, as well as our rich flora.”

Accepting the document Dr Haywood added: “During my brief time in post I have been confronted with a lot of challenges to face in the department.

"However a high-quality reliable bus service that goes where people want, when they want to go at an affordable price, is high on my list of issues.”

Another public meeting about the future of the service is due to be held on 16 December at The Albert Pub in Port St Mary.