Chatham's new bus station opens on Monday

Medway's controversial new 'mushroom' bus station in Chatham opens on Monday, with the council pledging that it will transform public transport in the area.

Buses will serve 117 destinations across the area, with the new station acting as a hub for all the main bus routes and connecting the waterfront and town centre. 

Rodney Chambers, council leader, said: "It is no secret that the old bus station in the Pentagon was out of date, unwelcoming and, to be honest, was not a nice first impression for those arriving in Medway.

"This is a key part of the regeneration of Chatham town centre. It opens up the waterfront and helps with our aim of ensuring the area remains an important shopping destination for people across the region."

The project has been met with much opposition, as the costs spiralled to £7million and businesses were affected by road closures, particularly Globe Lane and the blocking of Medway Street. Globe Lane is only open to motorcyclists, buses and taxis and the police have had to mount enforcement operations in the area to stop cars using the road.

And according to Labour councillors, a last minute deal has only just been agreed with the biggest bus operator, Arriva, which has cost the council £300,000. However, according to the Conservatives, Labour opposed the move of Arriva to the new station and have been obstructive throughout the whole process of Chatham's regeneration. I'm guessing that passengers really don't care as long as A) their bus is on time B) they get a seat and C) they don't have to pay extortionate fares.

There is good news for 11-18 year olds, as the council will be introducing half price fares for them at weekends from January 2012.

Arriva will be moving into their new premises at the waterside station on Monday 17th October - the timetable is unchanged, see their Medway Mainline website for more information. The council has an information page for the new station here.

Are you a bus passenger? What do you think of the new bus station?