‘Unsafe’ Eastbourne bus service reopens

The number 12 service, which runs from Brighton to Eastbourne, was disrupted last week after overhanging branches near Friston Pond caused issues for the double decker buses.

The replacement service, which was operated by a single decker bus and a shuttle bus service, had left some elderly passengers struggling to carry out their daily activities, and made walking home harder from different stops, one passenger said.

Brighton and Hove Buses said on Twitter on Monday (July 6), “You will all be pleased to know that our BH12, BH12A and BH12X services have resumed full, normal route to and from Eastbourne. Thank you for your patience during this time.”

Bus company communications manager Marie Sansom said, “The trees have been cut back over the weekend and we have confirmation from East Sussex County Council (ESCC) that the works have been completed.

“We risk assessed on Monday morning and reinstated services afterwards.”

An ESCC spokesperson said, “Following discussion with the bus company, our contractor was able to remove all overhanging branches in the Friston area that were affecting the use of double decker buses.

“Although we were able to carry out the work quickly, we would like to apologise for the inconvenience caused to bus passengers.

“We would also like to remind landowners of their responsibility to keep trees and bushes from encroaching on roads and pavements.”

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