Clacton: Bus drivers' behaviour "disgraceful" (From Echo)

Clacton: Bus drivers' behaviour "disgraceful"

11:40am Friday 15th February 2008 in Search By Claire Owen

Disabled passengers are being disadvantaged by a private bus company, according to a community transport group.

A special stop was installed by Tendring Council near Marks and Spencer on Pier Avenue in Clacton as part of the town centre improvement scheme.

But Tendring Community Transport, which runs the Dial-a-Ride and Hospital Hopper services for disabled and vulnerable people, says that drivers from Hedingham Buses have been leaving vehicles unattended there.

This leaves the TCT buses unable to access their stop.

The group's chief executive, Theresa Coyne, said: "The behaviour of some of Hedingham drivers toward community drivers has been an ongoing problem for some time.

"A complaint to the owner last year, this time related to Station Road, had no effect and disabled people continue to experience disadvantage owing to the selfish behaviour of some drivers who should know better."

Mrs Coyne has now reported the matter to Essex County Council.

She added: "Disabled people face enough challenges in their lives, including accessibility issues.

"The behaviour of some of Hedingham's drivers in blocking access is disgraceful.

"They should be deeply ashamed of the problems they sometimes create for the district's most vulnerable residents."

Robert MacGregor of Hedingham Buses apologised for their behaviour of his drivers.

He said: "This will not happen again."