Somerset Bus Partnership is urging all bus users to participate in a crucial public online meeting scheduled for Monday, July 15, at 7 pm via Zoom. The meeting will address the anticipated impacts on bus services in 2024 and offer vital insights into the post-General Election bus service landscape.
The Somerset Bus Partnership, officially recognized by Somerset Council and major operators such as Buses of Somerset and First West of England, serves as the voice of bus users throughout Somerset. With the support of 12 Bus User Groups and over 150 local bus champions, the partnership actively advocates for and disseminates information about local bus services, organizing around 80 events annually.
However, the financial constraints declared by Somerset Council last November have left little room for additional support for bus services. Coupled with inflation pressures over the past three years, bus operators are finding it challenging to sustain their budgets.
READ MORE: Somerset’s National Landscapes: New Name, Same Challenges
READ MORE: Fatal Crash In Somerset: VW Polo Driver Killed in Collision with Mini
To tackle these challenges, the Somerset Bus Partnership collaborates closely with bus operators like Buses of Somerset and First West of England to explore solutions that enhance efficiency while striving to maintain services. While recent successes include extending service 54 to Yeovilton and introducing service to Commerce Park in Frome, the partnership emphasizes the inevitability of service cuts if a route remains unprofitable and Somerset Council cannot afford to subsidize it.
In a bid to adapt to the financial constraints, a new on-demand flexible transport service has been launched in Somerset, funded by the Government’s £13 million Bus Service Improvement Grant (BSIP). The service, featuring the brand new Digital Slinky minibuses, began operation on a trial basis on Tuesday, May 28, until March 2026. If successful, Digital Slinky could revolutionize demand-responsive transport in the county.
Operational from Monday to Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., the service enhances access to local amenities, providing users with flexibility when regular buses are not available. Booking is required at least one hour in advance through the Somerton Slinky mobile app or by calling the booking office.
The Somerset Bus Partnership acknowledges that many regular bus users face challenges with internet access and prefer printed timetables. In response, the partnership distributes thousands of printed timetables at regional events and plans to organize a total of 80 bus stalls throughout the year. More information about events can be found on the Somerset Bus Partnership’s website.
The upcoming meeting will also shed light on the new bus times to be introduced in September, aligning with “Catch The Bus Month” - an initiative aimed at promoting bus usage and raising awareness about the benefits of public transportation.
For information on how to participate in the Zoom meeting, visit https://www.somersetbuspartnership.co.uk/.