A BUS operator has unveiled a new timetable of services for Durham and the surrounding villages.

Arriva North-East is to target 40,000 homes to inform people of changes designed to improve the reliability of its network.

But Durham MP Gerry Steinberg is concerned and has urged bus chiefs to meet him to discuss the proposals, due to come into effect on June 27.

The company said it had consulted bus drivers, passengers and local authorities on the changes, as well as taking part in public meetings.

Commercial director Liz Esnouf said: "Durham bus network has evolved into a complex and confusing structure.

"We are delivering a simplified network with better reliability that reflects the real needs of the majority of people in Durham.

"We want to encourage more people to use buses more often and these network changes will make travelling by bus with Arriva easier, more accessible and a better experience."

Last week, Durham County Council said it was unable to subsidise services to Newton Hall, which are to be discontinued at Durham bus station, effectively leaving some elderly residents stranded.

Mr Steinberg said he was opposed to cuts that would leave people in some parts without a service and asked for reassurances that passengers would not be isolated.

Mr Steinberg said: "I am keen to ensure the operator does not simply impose inappropriate proposals on the travelling public, who will have to live with the consequences of these changes, without fully considering the implications.

"It is all very well engaging in a public meeting to consult local people, but such forums do not always offer the most constructive and informative opportunity for debate or a mechanism for agreeing an appropriate way forward.

"It is the knowledge of local representatives that often raises valid and relevant considerations and offers the most valuable insight."

Durham County Council is supporting Arriva in its timetable overhaul.

Public transport business manager Adrian White said: "We know that, ideally, people would like a bus passing down their own street every few minutes or at a time when it suited them, but bus operators have to run services economically as well as efficiently, and balance costs with convenience."