A key bus route between Crewe and Chester via Nantwich is getting a significant boost using government grant funding aimed at improving transport links.
Bus Service Improvement Plan (BSIP) funding for both Cheshire East Council and Cheshire West and Chester Council has been used to double the frequency of the daytime no 84 service, which connects both places.
Both councils are working with transport operator Stagecoach and the service is running half hourly from today (July 28) instead of hourly from Monday to Saturday.
The existing Sunday service is being retained.
Cllr Mark Goldsmith, chair of Cheshire East Council’s highways and transport committee, said: “We recognise that travel patterns often extend beyond our borough boundaries, which is why we’re working closely with neighbouring councils and local operators to improve connectivity.
“Enhancing this corridor will make sustainable travel between the key destinations of Crewe, Nantwich and Chester, and the rural communities in between, more accessible and convenient for everyone.”
Cllr Louise Gittins, leader of Cheshire West and Chester Council, said: “This improvement supports better access to employment, education, and leisure opportunities along the route, while also encouraging a shift towards more sustainable types of transport.”
Matt Davies, managing director for Stagecoach Cheshire, said: “It’s great to see this funding in action, helping even more people to enjoy the accessibility, convenience and sustainability of bus travel across Cheshire.
“With the cost of fuel showing no signs of coming down, our services are also an increasingly cost-effective way to travel, with fares capped at just £3.”
For all the latest timetables, please visit the council’s public transport web pages.
With the dark days and nights approaching , it’s excellent news for the children who use the service.
Fantastic news and most welcome. Definitely is a lifeline for myself and means I can schedule appointments far easily and able to travel further afield, without the worry of waiting on the former hourly service to get to/from home.