We want to highlight the transportation inequality faced by residents in Bude, Stratton, and Holsworthy in Cornwall and Devon, England. Here’s a breakdown of the key points:
The Problem:
- Bus service 6, connecting these towns to Okehampton and the Dartmoor Line railway, is infrequent (only three times per day) and poorly timed, making it difficult to connect with trains.
- This lack of proper bus-rail integration disadvantages these communities compared to others with hourly bus services to their railheads.
- Low current ridership doesn’t reflect actual demand, but rather the inadequacy of the existing service.
The Proposal:
- The Bude Bus Branch-line Community Partnership proposes a significantly improved service 6:
- Hourly service with a more direct route.
- Limited stop options for faster journeys.
- Timetables designed for seamless connections with trains at Okehampton Parkway station (opening in 2025).
- Modern, comfortable buses.
- Improved passenger information and infrastructure at bus stops.
- Collaboration between councils, the bus operator, Great Western Railway (GWR), and the community.
The Benefits:
- Better public transport options for residents in Bude, Stratton, and Holsworthy.
- Increased ridership due to a more attractive and convenient service.
- Economic benefits for the region by unlocking travel opportunities and improving connectivity.
- Improved access to education, healthcare, and other services located near Okehampton.
The Call to Action:
- The proposal urges Cornwall and Devon Councils to work together to launch this enhanced service and capitalize on the opportunities presented by the Dartmoor Line.
- By applying a broader cost-benefit analysis that considers the wider economic and social impacts, the investment in this bus service can be justified.
Overall, the Bude Bus Branch-line Community Partnership highlights a critical need for improved public transportation in North Cornwall and West Devon. Their proposal offers a promising solution that could benefit residents and businesses in the region.
If you would like to read the proposals, please see below. Otherwise you can track our progress on The Bude Bus Branch-line Community Partnership page.
