A BUS service has been scrapped due to low passenger numbers.

Cheshire East Council has confirmed that part of the 47 bus route has been cut.

The service will no longer continue on to Knutsford, instead terminating at Statham in Lymm, after being withdrawn by Warrington Borough Council.

This change came into effect on Monday (September 25).

A spokesperson for Cheshire East Council said: “We have been informed that Warrington Borough Council has withdrawn part of its number 47 bus service, which runs through High Legh to Knutsford because of low passenger numbers on this part of the route.

“We have been informed that the operator has posted notices on its vehicles to inform passengers of the change.”

Currently, Cheshire East provides £20,000 to Warrington Borough Council to support this part of the route.

The council has stated that they have not yet decided on whether to remove this funding but will look at improving public transport in the area.

The spokesperson added: “Cheshire East Council is carrying out a review of its supported bus network and due consideration will be given to parts of the borough no longer served by public transport.

“The council will continue to look at opportunities to improve bus routes in this part of the borough. 

“In the meantime, we hope that our on-demand FlexiLink service can assist some passengers who find they are inconvenienced by the loss of the 47 within Cheshire East but please note there are certain criteria that apply to those wishing to access FlexiLink, which can only operate within the borough.”

READ MORE: Six new routes announced in town as figures show bus usage is on the up

The changes to the 47 is one of six new routes announced by Warrington Borough Council as part of its Better By Bus initiative.

Cabinet member for transport, councillor Hans Mundry, said: “We want to make bus travel as attractive and affordable as possible, so that many more people use the bus on a daily basis. These latest improvements are part of this work.

“I’m delighted these new services are launching this Autumn, providing even more choice for local people travelling in and around the borough. It’s a great example of how we are investing in the future of our bus services.

“The improvements we are making are having a real impact, with passenger numbers up and confidence continuing to increase in bus travel as a reliable, punctual and convenient travel option.”

More new routes will be announced in the coming days.