Member Article

Stagecoach to close Chorley depot

Stagecoach has announced the planned closure of Eaves Lane engineering facility in Chorley from September 2015 as a result of rising costs.

The group has looked into options to continue operating the depot but due to rising costs and the need for extensive investment needed in the site the decision was made to close.

A total of 21 staff are based at the Eaves Lane site.

As a result of the closure some Chorley bus routes will be operated from Preston depot, meaning some of the driving staff will need to relocate.

Stagecoach is currently consulting with trade union representatives over the potential impact on staff however it is expected that the majority of employees will relocate to another Stagecoach depot, either in Chorley or in Preston.

Managing director of Stagecoach Merseyside and South Lancashire, Elisabeth Tasker, said: “This has been a difficult decision.

“However, it’s important that we do what is right for our business to ensure stability for the majority of our employees over the long-term.

“It is also essential to allow us to continue delivering low-fares and affordable travel for the customers who rely on our services every day.

“Our main concern now is to consult with staff and trade unions, looking at every option available to those affected.

“Like other sectors of the economy, we are continuing to see rising costs across our business. In addition, Eaves Lane depot is in need of significant modernisation, as it is no longer fit for purpose, and the costs involved to do that work are prohibitive.

“We remain fully committed to providing high-quality bus services in South Lancashire. I would like to assure employees that we will be working to re-deploy staff to other local depots wherever possible.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Sophia Taha .