A PROPOSAL to encourage the use of public transport in West Devon by building more bus shelters was backed unanimously by borough councillors recently.
Members passed a motion calling for talks between borough and county councils and bus companies to find funds for a programme of shelter building over the next few years.
The motion, which was presented by Cllr Pat Warne, stated: ?This council is confident that more bus shelters will encourage the use of public transport. It may make life pleasanter for all those using it.?
Speaking at the meeting, Cllr Warne said: ?Both councils have voiced concern that there?s a desperate need to improve public transport in the area.
?We should now be encouraging the use of alternative means of transport and this will be aided by the introduction of more bus shelters.
?It would make travelling by bus more attractive to elderly people, who would be able to wait under cover.?
Cllr Nicholas Morgan agreed, saying: ?It?s a good idea, particularly for people in rural areas. We should definitely start dialogue with Devon County Council.?
It was pointed out that sufficient funding would be needed for individual parishes to maintain the shelters in the future.
West Devon Borough Council will initiate discussions with the county council and bus companies, in order to take the programme forward.