COLCHESTER’S MP has called on transport bosses to extend the hours of the park and ride service for commuters.

Will Quince met with Kevin Bentley, Essex county councillor responsible for infrastructure, to discuss transport issues including proposals for the park and ride, Mr Quince said in a follow-up letter to Mr Bentley extending the hours of the scheme would be more cost effective.

Buses leave at least every 15 minutes Monday to Saturday from 7am. The last bus leaves the town centre shortly before 7pm.

Mr Quince said he wanted to consult with commuters to find out what times would benefit them suggesting if the buses ran earlier and later, they might be well used.

He said: “I think it’s a good opportunity for the county council to offer a competitive service.

“It’s not going to be something that will appeal to everyone but if it takes a percentage of traffic congestion away from North Station then that’s something both the county council and rail users will benefit from.”

In a letter to Mr Bentley, he said the county council would be offering a highly competitive product for those commuting from Colchester to London who currently pay £8.60 per day to park at the station as opposed to the £3 charged by the park and ride.

He said if his proposals were to be introduced, it would be a “win- win” situation.

The park and ride has proved beneficial for patients as well as commuters, after a new stop was introduced at Colchester General Hospital in February.

The decision was hard fought as Essex County Council had initially ruled out the stop despite mounting pressure from other politicians.

However, following a sustained campaign, it was decided park and ride buses heading from the site off Junction 28 of the A12 would service people going to hospital.

Ian Grundy, Essex Highways boss, said: “We are always open to ideas to improve the park and ride service but we have a responsibility to the taxpayer to ensure we can justify any additional running costs through increased ticket sales.

“We recently introduced a hospital stop on this basis and are continuing to explore the possibility of extended opening hours.

“My colleagues and I will continue to work closely with MPs, councillors and residents to ensure our park and ride delivers the best service for the community.”