PASSENGERS in Worcester are being reminded to check bus timetables ahead of service changes which come into effect on September 1 and include the closure of the city's park and ride.

Earlier this year Worcestershire County Council held a consultation into the future of subsidised bus services which involves around 20 per cent of journeys. The survey attracted around 8,500 responses, the largest number ever received.

Passengers can now log on to www.worcestershire.gov.uk/bustimetables, which is being updated with details of all routes, including those that will change.

A total of 73 subsidised services will continue, 14 of which will run on a commercial basis. This means those linking schools, rural areas, health services and providing links to essential shopping areas will largely remain in place with some changes including to routes and frequency levels, council chiefs say.

In addition to the alterations to previously subsidised buses a number of commercial services are also being altered so all passengers are being advised to check ahead the changes.

One of the major changes will see Worcester's Perdiswell Park and Ride W1 service cancelled and the site closed from next month.

Cllr John Smith, county council cabinet member for Highways, said: "The county council needs to save around £25million each year until 2017/18 due to funding reductions so we have had to look at the future of subsidised services to ensure a level of service is provided and that residents are getting value-for-money.

"We listened to the views of everyone that got in touch during the consultation and took a considered approach when it came to taking this difficult decision. The final outcome means the vast majority of passengers are still able to access public transport, whether that be subsidised or commercially operated, whilst at the same time realising a £1.4million a year saving for the taxpayer."

Assistance on planning journeys by bus around Worcestershire can also be found at www.traveline.info or by calling Traveline on 0871 200 2233.