Kent operator Chalkwell has moved quickly to save two services that it says would otherwise be withdrawn after Arriva confirmed proposals for the closure of its depot in Sheerness.
While Arriva has not publicly said when the closure is likely to happen, Chalkwell has registered routes 360 and 361 that serve Sheerness from 12 July, which it adds is the day after Arriva will deregister them.
Arriva comments that it is currently discussing the closure of Sheerness depot in consultation with trade union representatives and Kent County Council.
It adds that it “remains committed to serving Kent, as well as providing continuity of bus services across the region by ensuring that the majority of routes are operated out of our Gillingham and Maidstone depots.” Further updates on the proposed closure will be provided in due course, the group adds.
Chalkwell Managing Director Roland Eglinton (pictured) notes that the family business was formed in Sheerness 90 years ago in 1931. It already operates there on school services and Mr Eglinton says that addition of the 360 and 361 to that is “a natural evolution” for the company. The two routes will replicate the existing Arriva services wherever possible, he adds.
