TRANSPORT chiefs look unlikely to step in to reintroduce part of a York bus service, despite a public clamour for its return.

First York opted to cut elements of its Number 13 route, including those serving Monks Cross Shopping Park at certain times of day, because of concerns over its usage and “ongoing commercial viability”.

That led to residents and passengers compiling a 169-name petition to City of York Council asking for the full service, which links Copmanthorpe and Monks Cross, to be retained, since when a public meeting has been held with local councillors and the company over the issue.

It will now be discussed at a decision session for the council’s executive member for city strategy, Coun Steve Galloway, next week.

Officers at the authority have recommended First’s plans be accepted.

They have suggested proposing to First that the Number 13 service should operate in a two-way loop around Elmfield Avenue and Dodsworth Avenue, and the ongoing review of York’s bus network later this year should include looking at how a link can be offered between the two roads and Monks Cross.

A report on the issue said keeping the Monks Cross link would mean a subsidy of more than £2 per passenger, meaning council support for it would have to be questioned.