Bus routes could be axed

Bus routes serving Welshpool and surrounding communities could be axed under cost cutting plans being put before Powys county councillors.

Twelve of 30 routes could be axed completely and up to 16 more could be reduced as Powys looks to find ways of saving £500,000 as part of an overall £30million shortfall in the council's budget.

Residents in rural communities surrounding Welshpool, as well as those in town, would face being unable to reach vital services or to shop. Contracts with bus service providers would be cut from November 20, according to a report before the county council's cabinet.

Barry Thomas, cabinet member for highways, is reported as saying the proposals will receive “very negative feedback”.