THE huge outcry over the removal of buses on Cradley Heath's Lodgefield estate has had an impact.

National Express this week announced the 4H would soon be diverted onto the estate four times an hour, however, the 297 and 205 services still remain axed.

Jack Kelly, from National Express, told the News: “One of the key complaints of residents was the estate being left without a bus service so the 4H will soon be available on the estate.

“The service will run down Lodgefield Road, Coombes Road and Gorsty Hill.”

He added: “We are currently undertaking safety checks on the roads and there might need to be some work done before the service starts.

“We will be undertaking a major review of services next year, which will rely heavily on passenger feedback, so nothing will be decided about the 205 and 297 until then.”

Cradley Heath and Old Hill councillor John Tipper broadly welcomed the move.

He said: “This is not exactly what we hoped for but it is a step in the right direction.

“Here's hoping the review next year will bring back the original services that have been sorely missed.”

After the services were axed nearly a 1,000 people signed a petition demanding their return and more than 100 people attended a meeting in Old Hill.

Stephanie Peacock, Labour's Halesowen and Rowley Regis parliamentary candidate. said: "We launched the campaign to reinstate the 297 and 205 bus service because we thought it was unfair that local people had been cut off.

"Residents fought a passionate campaign and I am delighted that they have been rewarded for standing together.

She added:"This is very good news but the campaign isn't over. There is still no direct bus to Russells Hall from anywhere across Halesowen and Rowley Regis. I'll continue to campaign for this until Centro and National Express see sense."