BUS SERVICES run by an independent company will be axed despite support for the service. 

Southampton Mini Link serves customers from the city centre to Harefield and Chandler's Ford to Eastleigh.

The owners of the bus company previously announced the end of the service due to “unforeseen circumstances” earlier this month.

Following the announcement, an outpouring of support from within the bus industry led Mini Link to continue to operate some of its services.

READ MORE: Southampton Mini Link bus service WILL carry on

But now the bus operator has declared the company will go ahead with the closure at the end of October.

Owner Simon Gard said: "The business is closing as a whole on October 31. 

"All services across Southampton and Eastleigh will be ending this month.

"We've slowly been closing things down and removing services as a controlled end.

"I don't know what will replace our services if anything. I believe it is up to the council now to sort it out.

"The decision to close was due to bus staff shortages. I have been in hospital too and I can't drive for the next six months."

Southampton Mini Link previously ended its 14 service from the city centre to Chartwell Green due to limited staff.

Simon said he hopes that other bus operators will fill the gaps in the service.

He said: "Hopefully Red City or Bluestar will take over and this won't lead to further gaps for people.

"I know from experience that when a service goes it means people will have to make travel plans.

"This is because routes that people don't go on don't fit school or work times and will lead to hourly services then being cut entirely."

A spokesperson from Southampton City Council said: "Southampton Minilink’s buses are well regarded by their customers and the council.

"We are sorry to hear this news. The council has supported in retaining other services in Bitterne, Harefield and Sholing.

"These services were at risk of being reduced or stopped and these bus routes will continue to provide alternative options.

"Our thoughts go out to Mr Gard and his family at this difficult time’

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