NEWS
Its more than just getting from A to B
03.10.24
This week we caught up with some West Penwith communities to find out more about rural transport issues in their areas.
Since early May, we have been examining the rural transport situation in West Penwith, focusing on challenges faced by residents in the most remote communities. Living in these isolated areas is often difficult, especially as transport needs and viability vary dramatically between summer and winter due to the effect of tourism on the population.
Individuals we spoke to explained how the bus serves as a life line in such rural areas. “I live on my own, so I enjoy the conversations…those chats can develop into something quite different – it’s an important part of my life and socialisation” explained a Pendeen resident. They went on to explain that they have friends in St Buryan however being able to socialise with them is seasonal – they can only travel there when the open top bus is running and even then it takes an hour and a half.
Responses from our survey have shown that rural transport is an emotional topic, with reliability, frequency, and communication about services emerging as significant issues. Over 40% of respondents rely on personal vehicles as their primary mode of transport because buses are too infrequent or unreliable.
A large number of surveys came from retirees, who form a substantial part of the population. A Trethewey resident explained she has had to retire as a result of transport issues – “the bus manages my life rather than the other way round”, she explained she would like to find a job as a carer however as she doesn’t drive, she would be unable to commute as the bus is not reliable and a taxi costs too much.
For the majority of retirees, the biggest challenge is accessing healthcare services, with paid transport alternatives like the Douglas Woolcock Foundation stretched to capacity due to a shortage of volunteer drivers and funding. “Our elderly neighbour (80) walks daily to St Just to the doctors – a mile and a quarter each way – on a dangerous road or through the fields” explained a West Penwith resident. They went on to say that other neighbours moved away so they could access Treliske Hospital more easily. This message was repeated across West Penwith, with the inability to access healthcare and vital appointments being mentioned regularly.
For younger residents, getting to school on time and being able to socialise are key issues. Many young people have to travel to larger towns like Penzance and St. Just but find it almost impossible to do by public transport early in the morning or after 6 p.m., as their only other options are to return home are expensive taxis or relying on a lift.
Our goal was to determine whether the issues of empty double-decker buses, infrequent or cancelled routes, and a lack of alternatives were real or simply perceived. Through community outreach events, engagement with a local steering group, and an online campaign, we have reached over 1,000 residents with our survey. These responses will contribute to a comprehensive report.
If you're interested in reading the full report, it will be available to the public at the beginning of December.