TfL have revived their plans to scrap the 347 bus service which runs throughout the Hornchurch & Upminster constituency. Now the local MP Julia Lopez is once again calling for residents’ feedback on the proposals.
In a meeting between Mrs Lopez’s office and TfL, the organisation announced that it expects to scrap the route at a meeting next week, only months after putting the plan on ice.
The news follows Mrs Lopez’s successful campaign to save the route after it was initially announced to be scrapped back in 2023. In January this year, TfL said they would retain the route while keeping it under review.
However, just seven months later, TfL are likely to go back on their plans to scrap the route.
The removal of the service follows Mayor Khan’s announcement that he would improve bus services in London’s outer boroughs to ensure communities aren’t cut off following the ULEZ expansion across the capital.
Commenting on the proposals, Julia Lopez said:
“I’m very disappointed to hear of TfL’s plans to scrap the 347 bus service following their decision to retain it just seven months ago. I’m now very concerned that removing this important bus service following the ULEZ expansion will leave many in our community struggling for reliable transport.
“Now I’m calling on residents to write to me again and share their views on the plans ahead of TfL’s meeting next week. I’d encourage them to write to me as soon as possible though as we haven’t much time!”
Assembly Member Keith Prince added:
"It's incredibly disappointing to see TfL look to take this decision just seven months after they backed down over the plans following feedback from residents.
"When ULEZ was rolled out across the capital, Mayor Khan announced that he would improve bus services for London's outer boroughs like ours. This move has the potential to leave people and their communities cut off. I would urge TfL to re-think their plans."
Mrs Lopez has asked residents specifically:
- What would they would like to tell TfL?
- How does the decision impact them?
- What would they like to see in place of the 347 if it is scrapped?
Residents can share their views with Mrs Lopez at [email protected]
UPDATE - READ JULIA'S LETTER BELOW
