COMMUNITY transport schemes across West Devon are waiting for a Government response on a situation which could see them having to fold.

The ring and ride services in Okehampton and Tavistock and the Tavistock Country Bus are being threatened by a European Union ruling that not-for-profit organisations which charge a fare should bear the same costs as a commercial operator.

The Department for Transport is currently considering responses from community transport organisations up and down the country – who warn that costly new requirements would close them down.

The situation has come about after a commercial operator in another part of the country challenged current UK guidance in the European courts.

Among other things, it could mean all volunteer minibus drivers have to get a Public Service Vehicle (PSV) operator licence, at a cost of around £1,700 for the licence alone on top of regular training costs.

Karen Rose, community transport advisor for Devon County Council, said: ‘The Department for Transport has promised us at least a summary of their findings before the summer recess, so we are expecting something really soon which will give us an idea of what their initial thoughts are.’

‘They continue to to believe that with the exception of larger operators who may be in conflict with commercial operators, that community transport should not be affected by further clarification of the law.’

The county council is fighting alongside the community transport groups it supports across the county, including those in Okehampton and Tavistock.

Sue Wonnacott, co-ordinator for the Okehampton District Community Transport Scheme, praised the county’s support and that from Central Devon MP Mel Stride, borough councillors and the local community.

The service runs a ‘ring and ride’ service for people which is a lifeline for housebound and elderly people in the Okehampton area.

The new regulations would apply to its two 15-seater minibuses.

‘If this goes ahead, we won’t be able to continue in the way were have been, although we have promised our clients we will keep going in some shape or form,’ she said.

‘Even if it means we can’t run the bus service, we will continue our volunteer car service.

‘We have had an email from Devon County Council, though, which is a lot more hopeful.

‘It is a case of wait and see, but they are telling us that common sense will prevail.’