An informal drop-in event is being held at East Meon village hall on Saturday from 10.30am to find out how East Hampshire District Council intends to improve public transport in the area.
Residents who travel by public transport will have their fare refunded on production of their ticket at the event - and people can attend for a few minutes, or a few hours, as they wish, and can meet councillors and officers to express their views ab
out what most needs to be done to get local public transport back on the right track.
In return for their views, they will receive free entry into a prize draw, offering four £25 prizes.
The event will be a fun day, with children's activities provided by RAPP, the council's award-winning rural play service.
Cllr Ken Carter, who is leading EHDC's drive to improve public transport, hopes that people will take the opportunity for a free bus trip to East Meon to help the council identify local transport needs.
He said: "Whether it's for work, shopping, leisure or to visit friends and family, poor public transport is a major problem for people without access to a car and particularly for those living in outlying rural areas.
"The lack of good public transport also has a negative effect on the environment, with more people being forced to use their cars whether they want to or not."
He added: "The event at East Meon is for anyone who needs or wishes to help improve public transport for the benefit of local people and the environment. We will also be consulting young people in schools and interviewing people on the streets to make sure we get the best solutions."
David Parkinson, EHDC's deputy leader and East Meon ward councillor, said: "Inadequate public transport affects everyone; young people you are unable to get in and out of town, elderly people who have difficulty visiting friends or relatives in hospital and commuters who have to drive to their nearest railway station and pay for all-day parking. This event for everyone – as everyone has a stake in public transport."
The results from the East Meon consultation will be passed to EHDC's transport consultants, who are carrying out a feasibility study for improvements across East Hampshire. Once completed, the options will be reported to the council in July.
Tenders will then be issued, with the aim of getting new services on the road by spring 2010.
For more information, contact Cllr Ken Carter, lead councillor for transport and community services development, on 01420 22576.
