The Caversham Heights community is currently facing a significant challenge: the potential removal of the Pink 22 Bus service. This essential bus route serves as a lifeline for many residents, providing crucial connections to schools, workplaces, and essential services throughout Reading. Without this service, many individuals, especially the elderly, disabled, and those without alternative means of transportation, may find themselves isolated and unable to access vital resources.

Local transportation options are vital for maintaining community cohesion, reducing traffic congestion, and supporting our environmental goals by decreasing our carbon footprint. The Pink 22 Bus is not just a mere convenience; it is an integral part of our community’s infrastructure, ensuring that everyone, regardless of their personal circumstances, can stay connected and lead an active life.

The proposed cutbacks come at a time when public transport should be expanded, not diminished. With the growing population in the area, public transport services are needed now more than ever. Removing this service could lead to increased social isolation, negatively impacting mental health and community wellbeing.

The alternative routes do not adequately replace the specific geographic coverage of the Pink 22, meaning that vulnerable residents, the elderly, and school children will be disproportionately isolated or forced to walk unsafe distances and the uphill of Caversham heights.

Furthermore, removing public transport options directly contradicts Reading Borough Council’s stated commitment to reducing car dependency and achieving net-zero carbon targets.

If this service is cancelled, residents need to travel by car and add to the already congested traffic in Caversham and against the environment strategy of Reading borough council. 

The car parking charges are very high in reading Train station and in reading town centre. So as the taxi costs. Reading borough does not allow cheaper taxi services options such as Uber.

I urge Reading Buses and the Council to reconsider this decision, explore alternative funding options, or look into a revised route to bus route 23 and 24 to serve Caversham heights.

Reading bus and reading borough council is not a money making organisation but to serve and provide necessary service to people. Because it is publicly owned, all profits are reinvested back into the local network to improve the bus fleet and fund less profitable community routes

We propose that the local council conduct a thorough review of the current transportation needs in Caversham Heights, considering the voices of the community members who actively rely on the Pink 22 Bus. Alternative solutions should be sought, such as restructuring routes or adjusting schedules but retaining the vital service altogether.

By investing in and maintaining our public transport options, we can ensure that Caversham Heights remains a vibrant and connected community. We urge the local council to reconsider this decision and seek alternatives that will not leave residents without this necessary service.

Please sign this petition to show your support for keeping the Pink 22 Bus service in operation for the benefit of the entire community. Together, let’s prevent our vital public transport services from disappearing.