Residents living along Radstock Road, one of the busiest commuter corridors in North East Somerset, are advocating for a permanent and reliable bus service. This vital road, part of the A362, connects the market towns of Midsomer Norton and Radstock and extends towards Frome in the southeast. It also links with the A367 at Radstock, providing routes to Peasedown St John and Bath to the north.
Despite heavy daily traffic, public transport options along Radstock Road remain limited. Currently, the 414 and 424 bus services provide infrequent connections between Frome and Midsomer Norton, but many residents experience long gaps without any bus service. The 400 households situated along Radstock Road have voiced their concerns about this lack of accessibility to Community Connectors, a local organisation dedicated to engaging the community on service improvements.
Nathan Hartley, Project Manager for Community Connectors, explains, “Although there are bus stops along Radstock Road, buses rarely appear. Our aim is to listen to local people’s priorities and empower them to influence positive changes in their community.” To advocate for enhanced public transport, Nathan has formally contacted the Bath and North East Somerset Council’s Transport Department and the West of England Combined Authority (WECA), urging discussions about reinstating a regular bus route here.
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Community Connectors has initiated a petition campaign, delivering petition slips to the 400 homes along Radstock Road and nearby side streets to gather signatures supporting a permanent bus service. “We want to ensure local voices are heard,” Nathan adds. “Too often, residents feel their opinions don’t matter, but here in Midsomer Norton, we’re committed to making a difference.”
Earlier this year, nearly 3,000 households in Midsomer Norton received a newsletter inviting feedback on local issues. Over the coming year, the project will involve door-to-door surveys, pop-up events, and street surgeries to capture residents’ views comprehensively.
Residents eager to stay informed or support the campaign for better bus services can contact Nathan Hartley at [email protected].