Preston bus firms told to sort out their differences

11:31am Monday 26th May 2008

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Two Preston bus companies have been told to sort out their differences ahead of a public inquiry into their conduct.

Stagecoach North West and Preston Bus have been asked by North West traffic commissioner Beverley Bell to work together on a written agreement over how they will conduct their business side-by-side - or risk losing the right to operate on some routes.

She said she hoped the two companies could present her with a written agreement which she could endorse, at the start of the public hearing on June 10.

If they are unable to agree, the inquiry will go ahead and Mrs Bell invited the companies to keep Lancashire County Council and her office informed about how the discussions develop.

Speaking at a directions hearing, Mrs Bell said that a public inquiry could be "catastrophic" for the reputation of the bus industry in Preston.

She said: "My aim is to ensure that bus passengers in Preston have safe and reliable services from both companies."