BUS passengers on the 549 bus are having to take a very long and circular route when travelling from South Woodford to Loughton.

The 549 bus has been diverted from its normal route along Buckhurst Way and on to Loughton due to gas main repairs close to the bridge in Buckhurst Way, and is adding time and stress to its frustrated passengers' journey.

Councillor Morris Hickey said the route takes passengers along St Barnabas Road, Snakes Lane, Chigwell Road, High Road, Chigwell, Redbridge Lane and all stops to Chigwell station.

Cllr Hickey claims that this diversion leaves anyone wanting to board a bus in Hillside Avenue, Woodford Green, high and dry.

He is now pressing for a shuttle service that could be diverted along Roding Valley, turning at Cherry Tree Rise and on to Woodford, as well as the diversion route currently in place.

He said: "I admit that this would mean people would have to change buses while the repairs are taking place, but at least they would be able to get to the station without travelling on a bus that takes them on such as a long circulatory diversion."

Bus operators Docklands Buses said the diversion routes are decided by Transport for London and the drivers have no option but to follow the directions signs set.

The spokesman said: "We realise this is very frustrating for passengers, and our drivers feel almost as frustrated as they do.

"Unfortunately our hands are tied. We are given routes to follow and have no choice but to do so.

"We would be very happy to provide a shuttle service for our passengers, but we only have the one bus for the 549 route."

A spokesman for Transport for London said: "We have diverted the 549 route due to gain main repairs at the bridge.

"We have chosen this route in order to make it most convenient for passengers while keeping them (and the buses) at a safe distance."

The diversion is expected to remain in place for at least two more weeks.