HARLOW Bus users have less than a month left to share their views on proposed changes to bus services in Essex.

A public consultation on a number of routes Essex County Council (ECC) funds is due to close on Wednesday, 28 September.

Many of the services currently cost taxpayers more than £5 for every passenger carried, which is the maximum level of support ECC will normally give.

The proposed changes aim to support the future running of essential travel routes while offering the best value for money for the taxpayer.

The Council is keen to get bus users to give up just a couple of minutes of their day to feedback on a number of bus services in their area.

The consultation lists each service (by district) and says what the proposed change is (if any) plus the reasons why. Tendring district is not included in this consultation.

Residents can submit their feedback online, in libraries or over the phone up to Wednesday, 28 September.

Cllr Eddie Johnson, Essex County Council Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport, said: “This consultation is a great opportunity for people to share their views to help create a cost-effective service that supports their needs.

“It is vital that we make bus routes work for everyone in Essex.

“We provide financial support for a number of routes and it is our responsibility to ensure that these deliver a reliable service as well as value for money.

“Taxpayers are currently paying for a number of under used routes that cost ECC more than £5 for each passenger they carry.

“This is not sustainable in the long run and that is why we are looking at a whole host of options to support the future of bus services across Essex.

“I would urge bus users to engage with us and share their views as part of this consultation.”