COMMUTERS opposing plans to re-route a popular bus service have been handed a lifeline by transport bosses.

First has delayed its plans to send its No4 service along Lawrence Street, instead of Heslington Road, until it has negotiated with council chiefs over 12 parking spaces, which could be removed to allow buses to travel more easily down the main route.

Some 350 people signed a petition protesting against the James Street company's plans to move the service, which connects the city centre with Acomb and the University of York.

Peter Edwards, First's commercial director, said the difficulty stemmed from parked cars on the street which meant that two buses travelling in opposite directions could not pass each other.

He said the bus company was now talking with council bosses to see whether 12 parking spaces which were causing vehicles particular problems could be removed - allowing the service to be secured in its current format.

A ward meeting is set to be held in Fishergate in October before a legal process, which could take as long as six months, is undertaken.

Mr Edwards said that, until that process was completed, First would not implement any of its changes for the service.

The news was welcomed by Fishergate ward councillor Mark Hill, who said First's decision was "a victory for the community".

Mr Edwards said: "There are just 12 car parking spaces on the road that would need to be removed to allow the service to be operated.

"A formal approach has been made to the council and we are in the middle of a democratic process. There is a Fishergate ward committee meeting on October 12 and people will be presented with a choice - car parking spaces or bus.

"In the meantime, we are not doing anything further to progress this plan.

"We are extremely mindful of the views of our customers and we would really like to be able to work with the local authority.

"We recognise that the removal of the service from the area would cause a degree of hardship. We are happy to reconsider our position as long as we can operate the service reliably."

Coun Hill said: "I will certainly argue, within the council, for the parking spaces to be removed if that is what is required.

"The number of people who would like to see the bus service retained is far more that the relative few people who may lose parking spaces."

Updated: 10:04 Friday, September 09, 2005