Dan Norris welcomes return of buses to Thornbury High Street

The metro mayor has appeared sceptical of South Gloucestershire Council’s high street plans, speaking at two public meetings called by opponents of the scheme.

He has even threatened to withhold funding for the next stage of the project if the public were not further consulted.

The Labour mayor has now praised Conservative MP Luke Hall for his part in the campaign to restore buses.

“As most people will know I have been distinctly underwhelmed by South Gloucestershire Council throughout the Thornbury high street debacle,” Mr Norris said.

“Finally though we have what looks like a positive step.

“Luke Hall MP has done an excellent job in helping to get buses back where they belong.

Thornbury and Yate MP Luke Hall next to the high street bus stop

“I’ll now of course be taking soundings from the public direct as to what they think.

“We must make sure that future changes to the high street have the buy-in of local people and that consultations are respectful.

“Thornbury High Street has been empty in recent weeks, and what we all want is for it to thrive again both in the run up to Christmas and long after too.”