A BUS service linking Halesowen to Hagley, Kidderminster and Stourport, which faced an uncertain future, looks set to be saved. Worcestershire and Shropshire county councils have put services currently operated by Kidderminster-based Whittle Coach and Bus out for tender and new operators are expected to be announced in due course.

Whittles confirmed that all its local bus registrations, including the 192 from Halesowen to Stourport, have been cancelled with effect from January 5. These services have been put out to tender by both Worcestershire and Shropshire county councils and contracts are expected to be awarded soon. This week, the company agreed to sell its coaching operation to Henley-in-Arden firm Johnsons Coach and Bus Travel, safeguarding 16 jobs.

But a number of other employees in other parts of the company still face the prospect of redundancy. In October, The News revealed that Whittles was being put up for sale by parent company EYMS or face the prospect of closure.

Bosses blamed years of operating losses for the decision. David Shipp, general manager of Whittles, said: “Whilst I am very disappointed that our trading position has left Whittles in a situation where we are unable to continue operating in the area I am pleased that both Worcestershire and Shropshire councils, both of whom have been very supportive, are able to ensure that all local bus links are maintained, albeit at reduced frequencies on certain routes, enabling members of the public to have the confidence that their bus services will remain. “I am extremely pleased that a sale to Johnsons has been achieved within the last few days thus securing employment for as many of our staff as possible with a company which continues to provide a strong ‘family’ ethos which both Whittles and EYMS share.

“Regrettably there will be some members of staff who work in other parts of the business will be made redundant and they have been notified of redundancy dates varying over the next few weeks.”