A vital early morning bus service in Taunton is back on the road, thanks to financial support from Somerset Council. The bus route provides essential transport to Musgrove Park Hospital, enabling staff to reach their early shifts on time, as well as serving commuters heading to early trains or workplaces.
Taunton MP Gideon Amos warmly welcomed the news that the 6.22 am bus from Wellsprings and Priorswood into the town centre will resume operations starting June 2. This reinstatement comes after persistent campaigning by Gideon Amos, local councillors, and the Somerset Bus Partnership.
“I’m delighted the route has been reinstated after discussions with First Bus managers,” said MP Amos. “The collaborative effort with north Taunton’s Lib Dem councillors Liam Pollard, Tom Deakin, and Lee Baker has been crucial in making this happen—their teamwork demonstrates a strong commitment to improving transport in our town.”
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While celebrating this achievement, Amos also acknowledged ongoing challenges: “We still need significant improvements in public transport, especially given recent service reductions by First Bus. However, our Lib Dem councillors have made great progress—from saving and revitalizing the Park and Ride service, extending the Wellington bus operating hours until midnight, to introducing new pollution-free buses—despite limited public funding.”
He further noted the efforts to reopen Taunton Bus Station following its closure by the bus company, contrasting it with previous administrations that contemplated shutting down the Park and Ride entirely.
David Northey, spokesperson for the Somerset Bus Partnership, added: “We appreciate everyone who supported our campaign to restore this key service, which many rely on. The bus funding is secured until next Easter. The Somerset Bus Partnership, local councillors, Somerset Council, and First Bus will continue working together to grow patronage on this popular route.”
To mark the service’s return, Taunton’s Mayor, Councillor Martin Strauss, will wave off the first bus, which will travel into town accompanied by Somerset Bus Partnership representatives, who will engage with passengers along the route.
Councillor Richard Wilkins, Lead Member for Transport at Somerset Council, expressed his support: “After listening to community concerns, we are pleased to fund this early service. We believe it is essential to sustain and increase the number of passengers on this journey.”