Transport for London, under the Labour Mayor, is reducing the 286 bus from five buses an hour to four from July.

While the route will move to double-deck vehicles, cutting the frequency will mean longer waits and less flexibility for residents travelling to and from Eltham Town Centre and across the route.

For many residents - including school pupils, older residents and commuters - the 286 is a important north–south link connecting communities in Greenwich borough. It also provides a vital connection to Queen Mary's Hospital in Sidcup for residents in Eltham.

Our Position

Investment in larger buses is welcome.

But it must not come at the cost of reduced service frequency.

Eltham, Greenwich, Blackheath Standard and Sidcup need:

• Frequent and reliable north–south bus links
• Better public transport connections to reduce congestion
• Proper consultation before service reductions

Our Demand

We call on TfL and the Mayor of London to:

• Maintain the current five buses per hour
• Introduce double-deck buses without cutting frequency
• Protect and enhance vital outer London routes - not reduce them