Stagecoach struggle with start of term buses

Stagecoach have faced problems since the first day of term with their provisions for Warwick students, with long queues at their travel shop and Warwick students waiting for buses that never turned up.

Approximately 30 students could be seen outside the Stagecoach Travel Shop on Regent Street at around 11:30am on 3 October, the first day of term. They were queuing to purchase 1, 2, or 3 term bus passes.

It was unclear how long students had to wait before being able to purchase their passes and travel to university.

Stagecoach staff have, however, been seen surveying buses and their frequency.

This follows a reputation for poor service whenever students start a new term. Mayhem was seen at the beginning of term 2 last year, with buses not turning up in South Leamington and driving past waiting students in the North.

The cost of Unirider passes has gone up since last year. The previous 3 term bus pass cost £297 for the 2015/16 academic year and is now available for £301, and valid from 26 September 2016 to 2 July 2017.

Cia Risbridger, 3rd year English Literature student, commented: “They did this last year as well. It’s terrible that it’s the only university bus company we can really use, and this is the service.”

Risbridger added: “At 9am there were no buses at all, you couldn’t get one from the top of the parade.”

The first day rush also caused havoc in Boots, where many students go to take passport photographs for their pass. Another anonymous student said: “The photo kiosk was out of order and I was told by staff that there had been an incredibly long line for the machine earlier that morning.”

Stagecoach Midlands were approached for a comment, but failed to answer or contact The Boar back.