Campaigners in Stoke-on-Trent have launched a petition opposing the planned cancellation of the number 90 bus route, which serves the communities of Ball Green, Smallthorne, Haywood Hospital, and Tunstall. The service was scheduled to end on September 25, prompting concerned residents to seek a reversal of the decision. The petition has garnered 266 signatures to date.

The number 90 route, operated by Stantons of Stoke, is considered by supporters to be essential, particularly for vulnerable hospital patients, carers, and pensioners who rely on it to access Haywood Hospital’s walk-in centre. Petition organizer Pete Carney emphasized the lack of alternative public transportation options to the hospital, describing the route as a “lifeline” for the local community.

Carney called on Stoke-on-Trent City Council and other relevant authorities to reconsider the cancellation and explore potential solutions, such as public-private partnerships, funding reallocations, or adjustments to the timetable. He stressed the importance of maintaining the service as part of the broader healthcare infrastructure in the area.

Passengers like Sue Ratcliffe of Tunstall shared their views on the service, with Ratcliffe noting that while she occasionally uses the number 90 bus to visit the hospital or friends, the limited operating hours pose a disadvantage.

Stantons of Stoke explained that the cessation of the route stems from changes in a linked school contract with the Stoke-on-Trent City Council. According to the company, a contract awarded in May 2018 was initially set for 36 months, but the council unexpectedly cancelled the school element of the agreement in August this year, 24 months into the term. This cancellation disrupted the financial viability of the entire number 90 service, which had been commercially sustained by the school contract revenues.

A company spokesperson expressed regret over the situation, stating that despite building a reputation for punctuality and reliability, it is no longer feasible to operate the route at a loss. They also thanked passengers for their loyalty over the years.

Attempts to obtain comment from Stoke-on-Trent City Council about the cancellation of the school contract and future plans for the bus service have not yet been successful.