BUS kiosks at Northwich bus station will close this weekend following changes to the way travel information for public transport can be accessed.

The kiosk will close on Saturday, August 31, with residents and visitors now asked to access their travel information through a variety of different ways.

Almost all of the information given to customers at bus kiosks is already provided by Cheshire West and Chester Council (CWAC) through Traveline – a telephone information line accessed by calling 0871 2002233 – the associated website (traveline.info), printed leaflets and publicity provided at the bus stations and bus stops themselves.

The changes come after a recent survey, undertaken by Passenger Focus, determined that printed and up-to-date information displayed at bus stops was the main priorities for customers, with CWAC determined to continue providing this information in partnership with bus operators.

Clr Herbert Manley, executive member for growth and innovation, said: “The decision to close these kiosks has been a very difficult one and has not been taken lightly.

“These are challenging times with increasing pressure on budgets, with the council having to make some very tough decisions and we are constantly reviewing our services to see if they can be delivered differently.

“There are plans in place to assist customers, whether they are local residents or visitors to the borough, with the changes in provision of transport information through improved printed material to be provided at each bus station.

“The council’s customer contact centres and libraries will also play a vital role in providing transport information to customers.

“The kiosk have provided support and advice for many years but it is important that we move with the times and provide information via more economically-efficient channels, meeting customer needs.”