Central London Bus Services Review RTIR Appendix J

Central London Bus Services Review Appendix J: London Bridge and Hackney Road (Routes 26, 48 & 55) April 2019 1. Proposal

Usage over the past five years on routes 26, 48 and 55 has fallen significantly. Routes 48 and 55 share the same roads between Lea Bridge Road, Bakers Arms and Shoreditch High Street. Route 26 runs on the same roads as route 48 between Hackney, Well Street and Bishopsgate, and route 55 between Hackney, Well Street and Shoreditch High Street.

Currently we have spare capacity on these services at the busiest point on Hackney Road. Route 55 is the most popular service on this corridor, with the remaining demand split between routes 48 and 26.

We are proposing to no longer run the 48 and extend the 55 to retain the connection to Walthamstow. We would increase the frequency of the 26 from every 10 mins to every 7 to 8 mins Monday to Saturday, to ensure there is appropriate capacity it its busiest point.

Routes N26 and N55 would remain unchanged.

We consulted on the following proposal:

Routes 26, 48 and 55

 No longer run route 48  Re-route 55 away from Leyton High Road and extend to Walthamstow Central bus station via the current route 48  Increase frequencies on the 26 to from every 10 mins to every 7.5 mins Monday to Saturday

Click here for the proposed routes 26, 48 and 55 map

Routes 26, 48 and 55 and all run between Hackney, Well Street and Shoreditch High Street  Route 26 runs between Hackney Wick, and Waterloo  Route 48 runs between Walthamstow Central and London Bridge  Route 55 runs between Leyton Bus Garage and Oxford Circus, Harewood Place  Route N55 runs between Oxford Circus, Harewood Place and Woodford Wells Routes 48 and 55 parallel each other between Lea Bridge Road, Bakers Arms and Shoreditch High Street. Route 26 parallels route 48 between Hackney,

Well Street and Bishopsgate, and route 55 between Hackney, Well Street and Shoreditch High Street. Across routes 26, 48 and 55 up to 18.1 buses per hour are required in the morning peak hour at Hackney Road towards central London, 22 are scheduled. During the evening peak across the same routes, 16.2 buses per hour are required traveling towards Hackney Central, 22 buses per hour are provided.

Across routes 48 and 55, a maximum of 8.3 buses per hour are required in the morning peak towards central London between Hackney Town Hall and Lea Bridge, 19 are scheduled. During the evening peak up to 7.4 buses per hour are required towards Lea Bridge Road on routes 48 and 55; currently 16 buses per hour are scheduled.

At the busiest point, nearly 60 per cent of all customers arrive and depart using route 55 during the busiest hour, making it the most popular service. The remaining 40 per cent of customers are evenly split between routes 26 and 48. Route 48 is the only service that connects Walthamstow Central to central London via Bakers Arms. This generates nearly 5,000 direct customer journeys between Walthamstow Central and Shoreditch High Street.

The busiest point on route 26 is Hackney Road, Queensbridge Road towards Waterloo in the morning peak, where 4.6 buses are required to meet demand and six buses are scheduled. Route 26 experienced a drop in usage across all days over since 2013/14 with an 18 per cent decrease on weekdays, and a nine per cent decrease on weekends.

The busiest point on route 48 is Hackney Road, Queensbridge Road towards Walthamstow in the evening peak, where five buses per hour are required to meet demand, and six are scheduled. Since 2013/14 usage on route 48 has dropped by 21 per cent on weekdays, 17 per cent on Saturdays and 13 per cent on Sundays. With the exception of 2016/17 where usage was broadly stable, there have been consistent declines in usage.

The busiest point on route 55 is Hackney Road, Queensbridge Road towards Oxford Street in the morning peak, where 11.2 buses per hour are required to meet demand, 12 buses per hour are scheduled.

Impact of change

Our proposals provide a total of 21 buses per hour on Hackney Road. They would retain a bus service between Walthamstow Central and Shoreditch High Street, with adequate capacity.

These proposals would releases stand space at Leyton Green for future network planning and resilience.

If implemented, these proposals would realise a net savings of £2,662,000 per annum. 3

As a result of our proposals some customers would need to change bus, where previously their journey was direct. This will affect:

 Eighteen per cent, 4,000 trips on route 48

A total of 2,300 of the route 48 customers originate from north of Hackney Central Station and the remaining 1,700 originate between Hackney Town Hall and Cambridge Heath Station. Customers wishing to travel towards London Bridge would need to walk 200 metres along Shoreditch High Street and interchange using routes 35, 47 or 149.

2. Response to issues commonly raised

Listed below are our responses to the key issues raised during the consultation for this group of routes. Where a route number has been included in the header of the issue it signifies that the comment relates to the indicated bus route. Where no route number is shown then either the comment encompasses all routes within the group or we were unable to determine if the comment was specific to a given route.

The tables below outline the most common comments for these routes. For an issue to be included in this report it had to be raised by either 2% of the public or by a minimum of 20 people, whichever is lower. Where a new route alignment was suggested by the minimum number of people we have provided a response to that suggestion.

Broken journeys

Concern withdrawal of route will make it harder to access London Bridge (mobility issues) As a result of these proposals, some journeys that are currently completed on one bus will require customers to change bus in order to reach their destination.

Following our consultation we are revising route 388 to run additionally between Liverpool Street and London Bridge from October 2019, replacing this section of route 48. This will enable an interchange for customers east of Hackney at the same stop in Mare Street between routes 55 and 388. Interchange will also be possible for customers in Hackney Road at the same stop in Bishopsgate between routes 26 and 388.

These changes can be made at accessible stops with shelters (except for one stop in Bishopsgate, where we aim to provide a shelter if possible).

Buses remain the most accessible form of public transport in London and our drivers will do as much as they can to assist people with mobility issues using our bus network.

We will also review the online information available for journey planning so that 4 interchange information is clearly explained and highlights accessibility requirements.

Concern withdrawal of route will make it harder to access the City (i.e. 48 Shoreditch, Liverpool Street, Fenchurch Street) As a result of these proposals, some journeys that are currently completed on one bus will require customers to change bus in order to reach their destination.

These changes can be made at accessible stops with shelters (except for one stop in Bishopsgate, where we aim to provide a shelter if possible). We will also review the online information available for journey planning so that interchange information is clearly explained and highlights accessibility requirements.

Concern areas of Hackney with worse public transport coverage are disproportionately impacted by changes These changes were made where we found excess capacity in central and inner London. We will continue to monitor where capacity is needed on the bus network in Hackney and will address this when required.

We are mitigating some of our proposals around Hackney. We are revising route 388 to replace some of the broken links resulting from route 48 no longer running, and to ensure interchange at the same stop for customers east of Hackney to and from the Liverpool Street and London Bridge areas. We will also increase the frequency of route 26, as described in the consultation. Additionally, we are not

5 reducing the frequency of route 242 as much as planned and we are introducing a new N242 service, extending route 242 to Tottenham Court Road at night. Concern withdrawal of route will make it harder to access south London 48 As a result of these proposals, some journeys that are currently completed on one bus will require customers to change bus in order to reach their destination.

These changes can be made at accessible stops with shelters (except for one stop in Bishopsgate, where we aim to provide a shelter if possible).

We will also review the online information available for journey planning so that interchange information is clearly explained and highlights accessibility requirements.

In addition, we will brief drivers on selected routes to expect more customers interchanging so they are able to provide information to customers who may require it. This includes details about alternative routes and interchange points.

Concern withdrawal of route will make it harder to access central 48 London As a result of these proposals, some journeys that are currently completed on one bus will require customers to change bus in order to reach their destination.

Route 55 will continue to provide direct buses between Walthamstow Central, Bakers Arms, Lea Bridge Road, Hackney and Shoreditch and many areas of Central London. Following our consultation we are revising route 388 to run additionally between Liverpool Street and London Bridge from October 2019, replacing this section of route 48. This will enable an interchange for customers east of Hackney at the same stop in Mare Street between routes 55 and 388. Interchange will also be possible for customers in Hackney Road at the same stop in Bishopsgate between routes 26 and 388.

Concern withdrawal of route will make it harder for older customers and 55 those with mobility issues to get around (disabled, health, fitness) As a result of these proposals, some journeys that are currently completed on one bus will require customers to change bus in order to reach their destination.

These changes can be made at accessible stops with shelters (except for one stop in Bishopsgate, where we aim to provide a shelter if possible).

Buses remain the most accessible form of public transport in London and our drivers will do as much as they can to assist people with mobility issues using our bus network.

Drivers are advised to ask anyone in the disabled space to make room to accommodate wheelchair users. Overall this change will reduce over-provision of buses on the Lea Bridge Road and Hackney Road corridor.

We understand that interchanging can be difficult for our disabled customers or those needing a priority seating, which are not always immediately available on busy routes. Over the past two years we have refreshed information given to bus drivers on effectively managing boarding/alighting by a wheelchair user as well as access to the wheelchair space; and this will be enhanced within the new (fifth) edition of the Big Red Book to be issued to all bus staff during April 2019. The new edition Big Red Book will also include further guidance on helping other customers with disabilities, some of which may be invisible disabilities. We will refresh the interior layout on buses, the wheelchair space on new buses will be increased to up to two metres where possible, generally allowing space for one wheelchair and up to two unfolded buggies. The latest double deck vehicles on route 20 have a two metre long space. These new buses will be introduced for new contracts and when buses are being refurbished.

We will also review the online information available for journey planning so that interchange information is clearly explained and highlights accessibility requirements.

In addition, we will brief drivers on selected routes to expect more customers interchanging so they are able to provide information or assistance to customers who may require it. This includes details about alternative routes and interchange points. Concern restructure of route will make it harder to access Leyton The changes made to route 55 in Leyton will result in a small section of the current route no longer being served. Customers will be able to board route 55 in Lea Bridge Road (a maximum walking distance of 250 metres, with signalised crossings available where needed) once this change has been implemented. Overall this change will reduce over-provision of buses on the Lea Bridge Road and Hackney Road corridor.

The Overground is not an alternative for disabled people (not step-free) 48 As a result of these proposals, some journeys that are currently completed on one bus will require customers to change bus in order to reach their destination.

These changes can be made at accessible stops with shelters (except for one stop in Bishopsgate, where we will provide a shelter if possible).

We therefore expect that most disabled customers currently using route 48 will be able to continue to travel by bus, using these alternative routes. In addition the withdrawal of the 48 will result in the loss of a direct link 48 from Hackney to Guy’s hospital necessitating a change at Shoreditch. In the N/B direction this involves a 400m walk. Following our consultation we are revising route 388 to run additionally between Liverpool Street and London Bridge from October 2019, replacing this section of route 48. This will maintain some direct links between Hackney and Guy’s Hospital that would otherwise be lost with route 48 no longer running.

For journeys no longer possible by a direct bus, the change to route 388 will also enable an interchange for customers east of Hackney at the same stop in Mare Street between routes 55 and 388. Interchange will also be possible for customers in Hackney Road at the same stop in Bishopsgate between routes 26 and 388.

Concern loss of direct connection between Waltham Forest and Liverpool Street and London Bridge Following our consultation we are revising route 388 to run additionally between Liverpool Street and London Bridge from October 2019, replacing this section of route 48. This will enable an interchange for Waltham Forest customers at the same stop in Mare Street between routes 55 and 388.

London Overground also provides a direct link between Walthamstow Central and Liverpool Street. These services run every 15 minutes with journey times of 15-20 minutes. Concern loss of direct connection between Waltham Forest and Guy's and St Thomas Hospital Following our consultation we are revising route 388 to run additionally between Liverpool Street and London Bridge from October 2019, replacing this section of route 48. This will enable an interchange for Waltham Forest customers at the same stop in Mare Street between routes 55 and 388.

Lost as part of the realignment of the 55 bus, due to the diversion away from the Tesco Superstore on Bromley Road, and High Road Leyton The changes made to route 55 in Leyton will result in a small section of the current route no longer being served. Customers will be able to board route 55 in Lea Bridge Road (a maximum walking distance of 250 metres, with signalised crossings available where needed) once this change has been implemented. Overall this change will reduce over-provision of buses on the Lea Bridge Road and Hackney Road corridor. Loss of link from Hackney to Walthamstow Market 48 We will extend route 55 to Walthamstow Central to replace route 48. This will maintain the link between Hackney and Walthamstow Market.

Alternative travel options

Concern that there are no alternative travel options As a result of these changes, some journeys that can currently be completed by one bus will require customers to change bus in order to reach their existing destination.

London Overground also provides a direct link between Walthamstow Central and Liverpool Street. These services run every 15 minutes with journey times of 15-20 minutes. Concern that alternative travel options are unappealing As a result of these changes, some journeys that can currently be completed by one bus will require customers to change bus in order to reach their existing destination. Following our consultation we are revising route 388 to run additionally between Liverpool Street and London Bridge from October 2019, replacing this section of route 48. This will enable an interchange for customers east of Hackney at the same stop in Mare Street between routes 55 and 388. Interchange will also be possible for customers in Hackney Road at the same stop in Bishopsgate between routes 26 and 388.

These changes can be made at accessible stops with shelters (except for one stop in Bishopsgate)

Concern that there are not alternative travel options for customers needing to travel by lower cost modes/lower income customers As a result of these changes, some journeys that can currently be completed by one bus will require customers to change bus in order to reach their existing destination.

The Hopper fare means that there will be no additional cost for customers who need to change buses to complete their journey as long as it is within 60 minutes of starting their journey. All changes described above can be made within that time at one or more of the above locations. Concern that there are no alternative travel options for customers who have health issues, are disabled and older customers and customers travelling with children and those who require step-free access As a result of these proposals, some journeys that are currently completed on one bus will require customers to change bus in order to reach their destination.

These changes can be made at accessible stops with shelters (except for one stop in Bishopsgate, where we aim to provide a shelter if possible).

Buses remain the most accessible form of public transport in London and our drivers will do as much as they can to assist customers with mobility issues.

For any customers who might require a seat, we encourage our drivers to ask other customers to offer their seat, if they are able, to anyone who may need it or is wearing a ‘Please offer me a seat’ badge.

We will also review the online information available for journey planning so that interchange information is clearly explained and highlights accessibility requirements.

We understand that interchanging can be difficult for our disabled customers or those needing a priority seating, which are not always immediately available on 11 busy routes. Over the past two years we have refreshed information given to bus drivers on effectively managing boarding/alighting by a wheelchair user as well as access to the wheelchair space; and this will be enhanced within the new (fifth) edition of the Big Red Book to be issued to all bus staff during April 2019. The new edition Big Red Book will also include further guidance on helping other customers with disabilities, some of which may be invisible disabilities.

We will refresh the interior layout on buses, the wheelchair space on new buses will be increased to up to two metres where possible, generally allowing space for one wheelchair and up to two unfolded buggies. The latest double deck vehicles on route 20 have a two metre long space. These new buses will be introduced for new contracts and when buses are being refurbished.

Concern withdrawal of the 48 will lead to crowding on the 55 We continuously monitor the bus network to ensure we match bus services to customer demand.

Before proposing any change to the bus network we review this data and model how changes to routes, frequency etc. will impact on bus capacity and demand.

Our analysis shows that where we have now decided to implement a change, following our consultation, there remains sufficient capacity on the bus route to match demand. We will continue to monitor this going forward and should demand outstrip capacity then we will look to address this.

Bus patronage

Concern changes will encourage customers to use private car The Mayor's Transport Strategy sets out his plans to transform London's streets, improve public transport and create opportunities for new homes and jobs. To achieve this, the Mayor wants to encourage more people to walk, cycle and use public transport. At its heart is a bold aim for 80% of all trips in London to be made on foot, by cycle or using public transport by 2041.

Our investment in walking and cycling infrastructure, as well as improvements to the Overground and Tube network, is starting to change how our customers use the bus network.

Changes to the central London bus network are being implemented to ensure this service is efficient, reliable, less complicated and matches customer demand. We also want to ensure that we invest our resources where they are needed most. In particular more investment will be made in Outer London bus routes where there is the greatest opportunity to provide new routes that will encourage Londoners out of their cars.

Concern Upper Lee Valley is an area of growth and bus patronage could rise We continuously monitor the bus network to ensure we match bus services to customer demand.

Before proposing any change to the bus network we review this data and model how changes to routes, frequency etc. will impact on bus capacity and demand.

Our analysis shows that there will be sufficient capacity on bus routes in this area to match demand. We will continue to monitor this going forward and should demand outstrip capacity then we will look to address this.

Frequency

Support increase in service frequency of 55 if 48 is cut We continuously monitor the bus network to ensure we match bus services to customer demand.

Before proposing any change to the bus network we review this data and model how changes to routes, frequency etc. will impact on bus capacity and demand.

Issues with Interchange

Concern buses are too full to board / over capacity 55 We continuously monitor the bus network to ensure we match bus services to customer demand.

Before proposing any change to the bus network we review this data and model how changes to routes, frequency etc. will impact on bus capacity and demand. 13

Our analysis shows that, with the increase in frequency on route 26, there will be sufficient capacity on bus routes in this area to match demand. We will continue to monitor this going forward and should demand outstrip capacity then we will look to address this. Concern withdrawal of route will lead to crowding on route 55 48 We continuously monitor the bus network to ensure we match bus services to customer demand.

Before proposing any change to the bus network we review this data and model how changes to routes, frequency etc. will impact on bus capacity and demand.

Concern buses are too full to board / over capacity 48 We continuously monitor the bus network to ensure we match bus services to customer demand.

Before proposing any change to the bus network we review this data and model how changes to routes, frequency etc. will impact on bus capacity and demand.

Our analysis shows that, with the increase in frequency on route 26, there will be sufficient capacity on bus routes in this area to match demand. We will continue to monitor this going forward and should demand outstrip capacity then we will look to address this. Concern new housing development at Lea Bridge Road will increase demand along routes We continuously monitor the bus network to ensure we match bus services to customer demand.

Before proposing any change to the bus network we review this data and model how changes to routes, frequency etc. will impact on bus capacity and demand.

Concern withdrawal of route will lead to crowding (mobility issues) 48 We continuously monitor the bus network to ensure we match bus services to customer demand.

Before proposing any change to the bus network we review this data and model how changes to routes, frequency etc. will impact on bus capacity and demand. 14

For any customers who might require a seat, we encouraged our drivers to ask other customers to offer their seat, if they are able, to anyone who may need it or is wearing a ‘Please offer me a seat’ badge.

We will also review the online information available for journey planning so that interchange information is clearly explained and highlights accessibility requirements.

Following our consultation we are revising route 388 to run additionally between Liverpool Street and London Bridge from October 2019, replacing this section of route 48. This will enable an interchange for customers east of Hackney at the same stop in Mare Street between routes 55 and 388. Interchange will also be 15 possible for customers in Hackney Road at the same stop in Bishopsgate between routes 26 and 388.

Transport for London also offers discounted travel across the whole transport network for various groups in society. For a full list of discounted travel options please visit https://tfl.gov.uk/fares/free-and-discounted-travel

Concern fares will increase as journey time may exceed Hopper fare time limit 48 Following our consultation we are revising route 388 to run additionally between Liverpool Street and London Bridge from October 2019, replacing this section of route 48. This will enable an interchange for customers east of Hackney at the same stop in Mare Street between routes 55 and 388. Interchange will also be possible for customers in Hackney Road at the same stop in Bishopsgate between routes 26 and 388.

The Hopper fare means that there will be no additional cost for customers who need to change buses to complete their journey as long as it is within 60 minutes of starting their journey. All changes described Concern number of interchanges will increase, making journeys inconvenient for customers who have health or mobility issues, are older customers or disabled or are travelling with children 48 As a result of these proposals, some journeys that are currently completed on one bus will require customers to change bus in order to reach their destination.

These changes can be made at accessible stops with shelters (except for one stop in Bishopsgate, where we aim to provide a shelter if possible).

Buses remain the most accessible form of public transport in London and our drivers will do as much as they can to assist customers with mobility issues.

For any customers who might require a seat, we encourage our drivers to ask 16 other customers to offer their seat, if they are able, to anyone who may need it or is wearing a ‘Please offer me a seat’ badge.

We will also review the online information available for journey planning so that interchange information is clearly explained and highlights accessibility requirements.

These changes can be made at accessible stops with shelters (except for one stop in Bishopsgate, where we aim to provide a shelter if possible). Concern interchange will make journeys more difficult As a result of these proposals, some journeys that are currently completed on one bus will require customers to change bus in order to reach their destination.

These changes can be made at accessible stops with shelters (except for one stop in Bishopsgate, where we aim to provide a shelter if possible).

We will also review the online information available for journey planning so that interchange information is clearly explained and highlights accessibility requirements. In addition, we will brief drivers on selected routes to expect more customers 17 interchanging so they are able to provide information or assistance to customers who may require it. This includes details about alternative routes and interchange points. Concern interchange will increase journey times 48 The changes to central London bus routes have taken a number of factors into account to ensure journey time is not significantly impacted.

By removing excess capacity and simplifying the network we can help to reduce bus on bus congestion, which in turn will help with the reliability of our services. It is anticipated that there will be a small impact on customer journey times, where customers now need to interchange on to another service. However, where this happens, customers will be interchanging between high frequency services. High frequency services are buses with a frequency of every 12 minutes or better. Routes 26, 55 and 388 all fall into this category. Concern Removing the 48 will cause problems for interchange at Shoreditch because of busy road crossings 48 Following our consultation we are revising route 388 to run additionally between Liverpool Street and London Bridge from October 2019, replacing this section of route 48. This will enable an interchange for customers east of Hackney at the same stop in Mare Street between routes 55 and 388. Interchange will also be possible for customers in Hackney Road at the same stop in Bishopsgate between routes 26 and 388. Interchange at Shoreditch will therefore no longer be required for most customers. Concern about lack of capacity on route 55 at Hackney Road We continuously monitor the bus network to ensure we match bus services to customer demand.

Before proposing any change to the bus network we review this data and model how changes to routes, frequency etc. will impact on bus capacity and demand.

Our analysis shows that, with the increase in frequency on route 26, there will be sufficient capacity on route 55 to match demand. We will continue to monitor this going forward and should demand outstrip capacity then we will look to address this. Concern that the 48/55 interchange is too far for disabled people 48 Following our consultation we are revising route 388 to run additionally between Liverpool Street and London Bridge from October 2019, replacing this section of route 48. This will enable an interchange for customers east of Hackney at the same stop in Mare Street between routes 55 and 388. Interchange will also be possible for customers in Hackney Road at the same stop in Bishopsgate between routes 26 and 388. The originally proposed Interchange at Shoreditch will therefore no longer be required for most customers

Withdrawal of Route 48 will cause problems for eastbound customers there as this involves having to negotiate the busy Kingsland Road, Old Street, Hackney Road and Shoreditch High Street junction. On westbound journeys, alighting from Hackney Road from a 55 to change onto Route 149 will involve crossing Calvert Avenue. Following our consultation we are revising route 388 to run additionally between Liverpool Street and London Bridge from October 2019, replacing this section of route 48. This will enable an interchange for customers east of Hackney at the same stop in Mare Street between routes 55 and 388. Interchange will also be possible for customers in Hackney Road at the same stop in Bishopsgate between routes 26 and 388. Interchange at Shoreditch will therefore no longer be required for most customers Reduction in capacity has a high potential to result in over- crowding at stops and on buses, impacting the quality and 48, 55 comfort of bus travel of residents and visitors alike and 56 We continuously monitor the bus network to ensure we match bus services to customer demand.

Before proposing any change to the bus network we review this data and model how changes to routes, frequency etc. will impact on bus capacity and demand.

Journey times

Concern withdrawal of route will increase journey times 48 The changes to central London bus routes have taken a number of factors into account to ensure journey time is not significantly impacted.

Suggestions- frequency

Suggest increase in service frequency is required (off-peak, peak, weekends, evenings) 55 We continuously monitor the bus network to ensure we match bus services to customer demand.

Before proposing any change to the bus network we review this data and model how changes to routes, frequency etc. will impact on bus capacity and demand.

Our analysis shows that, with the increase in frequency on route 26, there will be sufficient capacity on route 55 at its current frequency to match demand. We will continue to monitor this going forward and should demand outstrip capacity then we will look to address this. Suggest bus lane on Lea Bridge Road should be re-introduced The bus lane on Lea Bridge Road is not on the TfL road network and therefore London Borough of Waltham Forest would need to address this matter. Suggest less frequency on the 48 instead of withdrawing it We consider it is more effective to have fewer higher frequency bus routes rather than lower frequency routes on the network.

Suggestions- route

New route from London Bridge to Fenchurch Street Station on to Aldgate and then to Liverpool Street with improved interchange with route be 26 and 55 at Shoreditch Route 343 will link London Bridge to Tower Hill (for Fenchurch Street) and Aldgate.

At Aldgate, customers will be able to interchange to routes 242 and 254 for onward travel towards the Hackney area.