BUS bosses are calling on people to support Worcester's new park-and-ride scheme, saying 'It's over to you'.

The new Project Express scheme will see a raft of timetable, fare and route changes come into effect next month, with proposals for top-notch buses, extra terminals and expansion beyond the city in the future.

However, the next step is four public meetings followed by the launch of the new routes on September 5, and the message from the council is: 'Come and give it a go'.

Lorna Phillips, project manager, said: "We have worked flat-out to have everything ready and we would really welcome feedback from the public next week.

"From September 5, we are asking people to give it a go. The first time is the hardest but it would make a big difference if everyone could just try it once.

"The idea is to set up a simple, reliable and easy-to-use bus service and now it's down to the people of Worcester, who will make the difference."

Bus routes have been a contentious issue for years, with the reduction in some city routes - such as along Bromwich Road to Lower Wick, and in Battenhall - leading to petitions to the council and filling the Worcester News letter page.

The new routes will double the number of buses in the park-and-ride network and, once the system is fully overhauled, transport chiefs hope five times more passengers will use Worcester's buses.

Worcestershire County Councillor John Smith, who is heading the scheme, said: "How many people need to use their cars during their working day?

"If we can encourage just a small percentage to get on the bus, it will make a big

difference."

The public consultation days are being held at Worcester Rugby Club at 3pm and 7pm on Monday and Tuesday, August 22 and 23.

Pre-booking is essential and can be done by calling 01905 768192, or visiting www.worcestershire.gov.uk/project-express.