We are running two campaigns.
- Hearing-Aid Batteries: ESPOPF is urging the Hampshire PCT to make use of the provisions of the NHS to commission the Pharmacy at Blackthorn Health Centre, in the first instance, to provide more local services. For more details please click here.
- Travel Tokens: ESPOPF is urging Eastleigh Borough Council to re-instate the Travel Tokens for the over 60s and the disabled in the Southern Parishes.
For more details, please click here.
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ESPOPF's response to EBC's Review of Public Transport
ESPOPF RESPONSE 19/9/10
PROPOSED OBJECTIVE:
To make it easier for Eastleigh Borough residents, especially those with special transport needs, to access and use public transport.
MAIN ISSUES
1 The need to consult with more public transport users, especially those with special needs (eg older and disabled people, youth, unemployed, workers, parents with children) on the strategy and subsequently on any proposed changes to the public transport network.
2 The need to ensure equity in provision of services across the Borough, especially in semi-rural areas and those furthest from Eastleigh Town Centre.
3 The need for integration of all public transport, especially to link buses with stations, the airport and medical services, especially hospitals and medical centres.
4 The need to provide direct bus links between the southern parishes and Eastleigh town centre, including Fleming Park, Civic Offices, The Point, Swan Centre, Eastleigh Market.
5 The need to develop and support community transport initiatives to fill current gaps in the public transport network eg Community Care and Good Neighbour schemes
6 The need to improve the supply of up-to-date, reliable information, especially bus and train timetables, at information hubs in villages, at bus stops, on buses. (Sarah to supply samples to ESPOPF for orders) Real time information welcomed.
7 The need to influence transport operators to provide accessible modes of transport to meet needs and to train staff in passenger awareness.
8 The need to recognise that, while the EBC hospital travel scheme is very beneficial in many ways, it is still a very expensive option for most people, unless the subsidy can be increased. (Compare the subsidised Nitebus fares)
9 The need to develop smart-card technology for public transport travel and other uses eg leisure, library
10 The need to take account of older people’s needs: safe driving on buses, low-floor access, seat belts, large print timetables; seats, information and shelter at
bus stops.
ADDITIONAL POINTS
• ESPOPF is pleased with the development of the subsidised transport to hospital service to include journeys to all hospitals within the catchment area.
• It was noted that that, with the development of the new Fareham Community Hospital on the former Cold East Hospital site at Park Gate, more residents in the southern parishes will be directed to Portsmouth hospitals and that this will create demand for an extension of the current arrangements. (Sarah to approach HCC)
• The new service 26, to be launched on 24 October between Fareham and Hamble, including Botley, should stop at the community hospital. (Sarah to approach First Bus and HCC)
• Concerns raised about the siting of new bus shelters in Hedge End, which did not allow for sight of buses
• The need for a bus shelter opposite the Texaco garage on Broad Oak, Botley – this request to be added to the Transport Scheme Inventory.
Taxis should be encouraged to provide wheelchair access