COMMUTERS have given a mixed reaction to having to use replacement buses from Bolton train station.

Trains to and from the station have been axed until August 28 as work continues on rebuilding Platform 5.

The main concern was raised by Andrew Smith, aged 32, from Blackburn Road, who said he had nowhere secure to chain his bicycle as both bike racks, at the old station and soon-to-be opened station, are both closed to the public.

Elsewhere, journey time seemed an issue but passengers accepted little could be done.

Lydia German, aged 19, from Farnworth, works in Manchester city centre.

She said: “I finish work at 5pm but yesterday I didn’t get home until about 7.30pm in the end so that can be really frustrating.

Adam Cornes, aged 24, from Horwich, would usually get the 125 bus from Horwich Parkway and then the train to Manchester Piccadilly from Bolton.

He said: “It adds about 45 minutes to the journey but there’s nothing you can do about it I suppose, it is what it is and it’s only for a couple of weeks, not forever.”

Sunita Vadher, aged 29, from Morris Green, said: “It is only for two weeks so I’m hoping there won’t be any issues.” And Jennifer Riley, from Lancaster, aged 20, said the replacement service was ‘better than expected’ but still far from ideal.

Mark Killick, from Network Rail, said the improvements will ensure the station is fit for use for many years to come as the demand on train services increase.

He added: “I understand the work will cause disruption for some people and I apologise but in the long term, the enhancement of the station will improve the passenger experience.”