ISLAND COACHWAYS is determined to retain the bus contract.

Managing director Hannah Beacom responded after the States this week told the Environment Department that it could not hire consultants to carry out an extensive review of bus services.

The Assembly ruled that the department would have to complete the work in-house.

‘This decision does not affect Island Coachways’ situation in regard to the tender process or our enthusiasm to retain the contract,’ said bus company MD Hannah Beacom (pictured) .

‘We remain confident that with our service history record we can continue to provide the best service for the island’s travelling public and build on our significant achievements to date – if chosen to do so.’

An Environment spokesman said yesterday that there had been considerable misunderstanding as to the work that needed to be undertaken.

‘The department was not asking for consultants to look at the route structure – this can certainly be done in-house,’ he said.

‘Neither was the department seeking to engage consultants to procure the next fleet of buses – this can also be done in-house.’