In response to recent articles about the extension of the U7 bus route, I would like to take this opportunity to clarify a few concerns that have been raised about the scheme.
The extension of the route will not result in extra bus shelters but only bus stops, and this should therefore minimise anti-social behaviour.
In addition, no Green Belt land, trees or hedgerows will be used for these extra stops, and no coloured Tarmac will be used, so that the road surface remains the same.
We are aware that some residents have raised issues about sexual activity and urinating at the current stand for the U7 bus route in Charville Lane, and whilst we have raised this at the highest level with London Buses, the extension of the bus route will mean that buses will no longer be stopping at this stand, thereby helping to eliminate this problem.
The extension of the bus route was originally requested by residents at a public meeting held by local MP John McDonnell some years back, in order to help improve accessibility to local facilities and provide valuable links for residents in the area.
Since the scheme has been announced, we have had support from local residents and the majority of ward councillors.
As suggested in last week's article in the Gazette [Angry families not told of plan for extra bus stops] I will not be resigning as a councillor and will be standing again in 2010.
COUNCILLOR KEITH BURROWS,
cabinet member for planning and transportation,
Hillingdon Council, Civic Centre,
High Street, Uxbridge.
