I am delighted to see that Cllr Ray Bryan and Dorset Council is developing a Bus Service Improvement Plan (BSIP) for Dorset (Echo July 1st). The article highlights the difficulties for rural people due to poor or non-existent bus services and I recognise this serious problem.

But for those of us living south of the Ridgeway, in Weymouth, Chickerell and Portland, an excellent bus service is also crucial. Here the high density of social deprivation creates a reliance upon public transport for the fundamentals of life such as access to medical care, Jobcentres, specialist shops etc. The Climate and Ecological Emergency (CEE) Working Group of Weymouth Town Council (WTC) in its response to the CEE has to date been focussing on the issues directly under the control of WTC. However, it is clear to the Working Group just how important a wider dynamic transport strategy is for Weymouth if it is to make the necessary contribution towards cutting greenhouse gas emissions.

An integrated, reliable and affordable public transport system in Weymouth is key to this, encompassing rail, bus, electric vehicle charging provision and a viable Park and Ride service. In looking forward to working with Dorset Council to develop the BSIP, we recognise the limitations in funding for public transport available to Dorset Council. Money put forward for buses thus far by the Government is welcome but there is the necessity for much more money being made available and directed towards Dorset.

There is an important role here for Mr Richard Drax MP. As part of our response to the CEE we have contacted Mr Drax asking him to support the Climate and Ecological Bill in Parliament and we look forward to his support as WTC tackles the challenges set by the CEE and working with us to reduce the harmful effects of traffic in our town.

WTC has made good progress by making funds available to further electrify our vehicle fleet, to erect solar panels on some of our buildings, to alter the way in which we manage our parks and open spaces and to develop food growing at the Tumbledown Community Project. We welcome any ideas from members of the public which could improve our response.

Cllr Graham Lambert

Vice-Chairman, Climate and Ecological Emergency Working Group

Weymouth Town Council