A council subsidised bus service between Middlesbrough and the Wilton chemical complex is being axed, the Local Democracy Reporting Service has learnt.

The 64B, operated by Stagecoach, which currently runs six days a week on early mornings, also calling at Grangetown and Eston, will cease on March 25.

Redcar and Cleveland Council contributed £16,250 to the costs of the service annually from its budget, but has decided to no longer fund it.

Read more: Transport chiefs warn the North East's bus services will suffer as grants end

The 64B has been deemed to be “poorly performing” with patronage said to be focused around residential areas in Middlesbrough, for which journeys can be mostly made already using a commercially provided Arriva bus service.

The council has now given notice to Stagecoach that the contract will be terminated next month because of passenger numbers being too low.

A council delegated decision record said the subsidy per passenger recorded in October amounted to £3.42.

It said alternative bus routes were available to support residents to get to work, shops and other destinations.

The council cited the need to support sustainable modes of transport and ensure value for money.

Stagecoach said the 64B was paid for by the council and confirmed the local authority no longer wished it to operate.

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Meanwhile, the transport company is awaiting a decision from the Tees Valley Combined Authority over the future of the on-demand ‘Tees Flex’ service it also operates, which is intended to assist isolated rural communities.

A three year pilot scheme paid for by TVCA ends on February 24, beyond which point Tees Flex minibuses aren’t scheduled to run.

At this stage the combined authority has only gone as far as to say potential next steps are due to be considered.