News / Transport
The Bristol bus services set to be saved
The news that several bus routes would stop running when Bristol Community Transport suddenly ceased all operations met with concern from many.
Less than two weeks later and efforts to save the services that provide a vital lifeline for many mean the majority will continue to run after different operators agreed to take them on.
West of England mayor Dan Norris has confirmed Brighton-based community interest company The Big Lemon are in final talks to take on the operation of four routes that were due to be axed.
is needed now More than ever
The company is set to operate the 505 (Long Ashton Park & Ride to Southmead), 506 (Broadmead to Southmead), 515 (Imperial Park to Stockwood) and 516 (Broad Walk to Hengrove Park).
A spokesman for the social enterprise confirmed that, subject to a licence being granted, The Big Lemon will be running four services in Bristol from October 3.
This follows confirmation that First West of England is officially taking over running the m1 metrobus route, with managing director Doug Claringbold saying the service plays “a vital role in connecting south Bristol to other areas across the city”.
Euro Taxis will be running the 511 and 512 routes, while Transpora took over running the 52 route on Monday, with the operator reporting passenger numbers were higher than expected.
Welcoming the news, metro mayor Dan Norris said: “As soon as the bad news came through that Bristol Community Transport was cutting all its buses, the West of England Authority I lead got down to work to try to find a solution.
“There was always money on the table and I promised we would leave no stone unturned. I am delighted these efforts have paid off for the 505, 506, 515 and 516 as well as 52, 511 and m1 services: this is a really, really positive step forward”.
The spokesman for The Big Lemon said fares on its new routes will be in line with the requirements of WECA and will be announced prior to launch of the services. Multi-operator rider tickets will be accepted.
However, the good news comes against a backdrop of several cuts to bus services, with First blaming declining passenger numbers and a severe shortage of drivers.
Main photo: First West of England
Read more:
- More than 10 bus services to stop as Bristol Community Transport ceases operations
- Petition to save ‘lifeline’ Bristol bus service
- First reveals which bus services will be scrapped
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