COLCHESTER and Sandon's park and ride services are being suspended due to the ongoing coronavirus situation.

The suspension, from Saturday (February 6), is in response to strict government guidance urging people to stay at home and only travel when absolutely necessary.

The service will remain closed until further notice.

Kevin Bentley, deputy leader of Essex County Council, said: “While we seek to retain public transport services for individuals who are making essential journeys, those using the Park and Ride have access to a car, so will have an alternative mode of transport available should they need it.

“Our park and ride services are valued, high quality and sustainable services, however during this crisis we need to use our resources wisely which means deploying resources to support commercial bus services where passengers on these services may have no other options available.

"The county council has been redeploying buses and drivers to commercial routes that serve hospitals and other important routes.

He added: “The closure will be for as short a time as possible as we know how valued it is.

"We look forward to welcoming back our regular travellers and hopefully new ones when it re-opens.”