COUNCILLORS claim residents are up in arms after being shunned by York's new Park&Ride service.

Labour members on City of York Council went on the attack after hearing Monks Cross buses will not stop on Malton Road.

Coun Viv Kind said this was a slap in the face for residents after months of roadworks on their doorsteps.

After ward committee complaints, the Heworth councillor today called for a rethink.

She said: "Since Park&Ride was proposed we've been pushing for a stop on Malton Road. Despite positive indications, we find there isn't going to be a stop after all.

"Everyone acknowledges these residents have put up with one of the worst bus services in York, that does not run evenings or Sundays.

"This was a chance to put that right."

She said: "Local people have also had to cope with the disturbance and inconvenience work on the bus lane has produced. At the very least they should be able to benefit now it is completed. They are being totally let down and I think it is a disgrace."

But bus chiefs said the latest Park&Ride service - launched on Monday - had to be "quick and direct" to lure motorists.

First York commercial manager Peter Edwards said that was why one stop - at the Shoulder Of Mutton pub - had been identified, in line with other Park&Rides.

Liberal Democrat transport chief Ann Reid said existing Malton Road services were taken into account when a decision was made by council officers and First.

Meanwhile, a Labour councillor has hit out at delays in completing cycle lanes on the route.

Heworth councillor Ruth Potter said a new bus lane had narrowed Malton Road for cars, creating hazards.

"Cyclists and cars are squeezing down an already very busy road. The council should have made sure the cycle track was completed as a safety priority before installing this bus lane."

Coun Reid said work was continuing as fast as possible to ensure safety for all road users.

Updated: 08:57 Saturday, July 17, 2004