Published Wednesday 30 September 2020 at 16:43
Three new bus services are set to launch across Blackburn with Darwen thanks to a funding boost.
The new timetables will start on Monday October 5 with residents being able to take advantage of new routes running right across the borough.
The improvements have been funded by the Department for Transport’s ‘Supported Bus Services’ programme and include:
- Re-introduced journeys from Darwen to Royal Blackburn Hospital extending to Audley Range, North Road and Blackburn Town Centre operated by Moving People.
- New peak time service for the Philips Road and Whitebirk industrial estates operated by Blackburn Private Hire.
- Additional links to Darwen Town Centre from Hoddlesden, Waterside, Eccleshill and Pot House and improved links between Darwen and Edgworth operated by Travel Assist.
Some rescheduling of the Darwen Town Network has also been made with improved service frequencies and timings.
Councillor Phil Riley, Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council’s Executive Member for Regeneration, welcomed the new services saying:
We know that bus services are a lifeline for many of our residents and we’re really pleased that the Department for Transport has funded these new services through the Supported Bus Services Programme.
For some time now, we’ve seen a significant reduction in funding and vital bus services have had to be reduced and in some cases, sadly removed altogether.
This has left many residents, particularly those in rural areas, feeling isolated and this funding will be particularly good news for them.
While the latest Government coronavirus advice is only to use public transport for essential journeys, I know that these improvements will be welcome additions to many.
The new routes will make it even easier to get to Royal Blackburn Hospital and to other essential places such as your place of work, we hope those people who need to use the routes will make good use of the new services.
Residents are advised to only use public transport for essential purposes, such as travelling to school or work.
In a bid to reduce the spread of coronavirus, all residents in Lancashire are being advised to wash their hands, cover their face and make space!
Passengers must wear face coverings at all times, unless they are exempt due to medical conditions.
You can find out further information on transport and travel in the Borough on our website