Vital Bus Services Secured After New Operator Found
Written by HFM News on 6th March 2024
The future of a vital bus service linking villages with Market Harborough and Northampton has been secured.
The 59 and 60 routes had been under threat after the current operator Uno announced it would stop running them.
West Northamptonshire Council subsidises the services and has awarded a new contract to Stagecoach, which will take-over the routes from Monday.
The buses provide a life-line for people without any other transport in villages including Welford, Sibbertoft, Marston Trussell, Naseby and Clipston.
Cllr Jonathan Harris represents the Brixworth area and has been campaigning to keep the buses running:
Stagecoach will take-over running the services from Uno Pic: Jonathan Harris
Cllr Phil Larratt, Cabinet Member for Environment, Transport, Highways and Waste at West Northamptonshire Council, said: “We are delighted that Stagecoach will be operating the 59 / 60 bus service from 11 March.
“This service provides essential connectivity for residents, shoppers and local students, and it is great news that there will be a smooth continuation and no gap in buses running. We look forward to continuing to work with Stagecoach.”
Mark Whitelocks, Managing Director Stagecoach Midlands, said “We are excited to be running these new routes on behalf of West Northamptonshire Council.
“These additional services further expand the Stagecoach bus network, connecting us to new areas and communities within Northamptonshire. We look forward to welcoming passengers onboard.”
People can stay up-to-date with bus services in their area by visiting https://www.westnorthants.gov.uk/buses-and-transport
