THE sword will fall on York's bus information office next month as part of cost-saving plans, council chiefs have revealed.

Staff at the travel centre in George Hudson Street will deal with travellers needing times or information for the last time on May 31.

But City of York Council transport bosses have reassured residents they will still have access to bus information after the closure.

Anyone wanting information about local, regional and national bus services will be able to call a regional travel centre, based in Hull.

Callers will be able to access the centre by phoning 01904 551400, and calls will be diverted at no extra cost.

Six part-time workers at the bus centre are being made redundant following the closure as part of cut backs to the council's planning and transport budget.

The service provided callers with information about services throughout York and North Yorkshire from companies including First and Arriva.

But officers recommended its closure following the introduction of a regional information service in Leeds, along with proposals to provide kiosks at points within the city.

It is expected to save the authority £35,000 in 2006 to 2007, and £70,000 in subsequent years.

The cut-backs form part of the council's £6 million efficiency savings, needed to balance the books in this year's budget process.

Julie Hurley, head of transport planning at the council, said: "We are

disappointed we are having to close the office."

Anyone wanting to collect a new Older Person's Pass or a Yo Zone Card will be able to do so from the Parking Reception at 9 St Leonard's Place from June 1.

Updated: 09:56 Saturday, April 22, 2006