Through questions to the Mayor in the London Assembly, Liberal Democrat Caroline Pidgeon AM has revealed that around a third of the capital’s worst bus routes run through Brent.
The 220, 452 and 228 all fell within the ten worst performing routes in London, according to independent watchdog TravelWatch. The service on the 228 was singled out for particular concern by the Chair of London Travelwatch.
- The 220 runs from Willesden Junction, through Harlesden, to Wandsworth
- The 452 – designated as a “high frequency” route - runs from Kensal Rise Station to Wandsworth Road.
- The 228 runs from Park Royal (Central Middlesex Hospital) to Chippenham Gardens (Maida Hill), via Harlesden and Willesden.
As recently as March, Lib Dem GLA Leader Caroline Pidgeon revealed through a written question to Mayor Boris Johnson that four Brent routes had been in the top 10, with the 79, 114 and 226 featuring alongside the 228. This was based on the length of time that people have to wait over and above the published frequency of service.
While these 3 routes narrowly dropped out the top 10, the Liberal Democrats say it is both depressing and typical that 2 other Brent routes have taken their place.
Brent Liberal Democrat councillor Daniel Brown said:
“It’s regrettable that Brent’s bus passengers have been consistently badly served, with around a third of London’s worst routes at any time. The 228 is known to have ongoing problems, which is particularly disappointing as the new route was only introduced last year. You would think they would want to get it right from the start.
“With a recent report revealing that the Jubilee Line works may continue into 2011, and with all three Tube routes through Brent closed some weekends, why must we also put up with London’s poorest overall bus service? Mayor Boris Johnson must act immediately to bring about improvements given the dreadful inconvenience our residents already face.”