Public Meeting at Lostwithiel Community Centre of Lostwithiel Transport Users’Group 1 st October 2012 at 8.00pm.

1. Lostwithiel Town Forum formed a Transport Users’Group to improve public transport in the town. An introduction was given by John Scott outlining the present bus and train transport provision serving Lostwithiel. This is likely to change with a new franchise contract coming soon. 2. A discussion followed and the following points were made regarding the bus service: a. The few existing buses do not serve the needs of residents or visitors. The journey times are inadequate and do not link with nearby towns or rail stations. b. The government has reduced the subsidy for concessionary travel and Cornwall council has not provided any extra money for transport. c. Some people would be willing to pay for a regular bus service even though they hold bus passes. Others wish to be able to use their passes on a regular basis. d. Many people would like a bus service linking Fowey and Bodmin via Lostwithiel. e. A representative from Volunteer Cornwall suggested setting up a community bus service, possibly linked to the present Lerryn service. A Community Car Scheme, run by volunteers, is available for journeys with a 24hour notice preferred Telephone 01872 265300. (See http://www.cornwall.gov.uk/default.aspx?page=6010).

3. A further discussion regarding the trains followed and these points were raised: a. The present train service is too infrequent with large gaps in the timetable making travel difficult for anyone wishing to travel to or from Lostwithiel. b. The sleeper service does not stop for journeys travelling from Lostwithiel to London although it stops on its return. This means passengers from Lostwithiel have to board this train at Bodmin Parkway or Par. c. The sprinter trains are very overcrowded with passengers and luggage especially at holiday times. People often have to stand when all the seats are taken. d. There is no ticket office/machine at Lostwithiel station. Often the train conductors do not sell tickets on the trains and this causes delay at the end of journeys because passengers have to queue for tickets at the destination barriers. Where there is no ticket collector at the destination, Continued 1

passenger numbers from Lostwithiel will not be counted. A suggestion was made to complete complaint forms whenever this occurs.

4. It was agreed that a survey should be conducted to research the needs of residents and visitors which will give evidence to put before the transport providers. 5. There was very good support for the Transport Users’Group and many people were willing to help. It was reported that the Transport Users’ Group will be discussed at the next council meeting on 2nd October 2012. [At the Council meeting the Council voted unanimously to support the aims of the group]. 6. A further opportunity for anyone wishing to give their views on transport issues will be available at a drop in session at the station platform meeting room on 6th October from 10.00 until 12.00. Jill and John Scott

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