Local Couple Opposes New Bus Stop Installed Outside Their Home

Christopher Harris and Michelle Smith, residents of Llantrisant Road in Beddau, Rhondda Cynon Taf, were taken aback when they returned home from work to find a new bus stop installed directly at the end of their driveway. The couple had previously been aware of plans for a bus stop in their area, but those plans indicated a location further up the road.

'Council installed bus stop across our driveway while we were at work'WalesOnlineMirror - UKManchester Evening News

Mr. Harris expressed significant concerns regarding the bus stop's placement, noting that it obstructs access to their driveway. He stated, "They've put the post in my hedge and the bus stop is literally right at the end of my drive." He highlighted that buses frequently stop for extended periods outside his home, particularly when running ahead of schedule, which has resulted in him being blocked in. The situation is expected to worsen when the new school term begins, as the stop will serve numerous schoolchildren, leading to increased foot traffic outside their residence.

Couple slam bus stop blocking their driveway in Wales

In response to the couple's concerns, a spokesperson for Rhondda Cynon Taf County Borough Council confirmed that the authority would investigate the issue. The spokesperson stated, "Adding the new bus stop within Beddau is intended to improve access to local bus services for the community. Officers have received the concerns raised by the resident and will look into them as a priority issue."

'Council installed bus stop across our driveway while we were at work'Manchester Evening NewsWalesOnlineMirror - UKCouple slam bus stop blocking their driveway in Wales

Mr. Harris has voiced his frustration over the lack of consultation regarding the bus stop's location, claiming that it was never communicated that the stop would be placed at their driveway. He noted, "That wasn’t in any consultation. At no point did they ever say the stop would be there." He has also threatened to take action if the situation does not improve, stating, "I have threatened that if buses continue to block my drive then I will block the bus stop. I'll have no choice."

'Council installed bus stop across our driveway while we were at work'

• "When I saw the plans it was supposed to be up the road so I didn’t take any notice. But we had parking spaces outside our house and now we’ve lost those spaces." — Christopher Harris

WalesOnline

• "Nothing against you mate, but you're blocking my driveway." — Christopher Harris, addressing a bus driver

Manchester Evening News

• "I can’t believe it’s been put there." — Christopher Harris

WalesOnline

• "Adding the new bus stop within Beddau is intended to improve access to local bus services for the community." — Rhondda Cynon Taf County Borough Council spokesperson

Manchester Evening News

Mr. Harris is currently awaiting visits from his local councillor and a traffic officer to discuss the situation further. He hopes that the council's investigation will lead to a resolution that addresses his concerns about accessibility and safety at their home.

WalesOnline