At Connect Bude, we’re passionate about improving transport connections for our community. That’s why we’re urging everyone who lives in Devon—or anyone who knows someone in the area and can share this with them—to participate in the Devon Transport Plan Consultation and advocate for better services between Bude and Okehampton.
Time is of the essence: the consultation closes at the end of November. This is a vital opportunity to highlight the dire need for improved connectivity between Bude, Holsworthy, and the Okehampton railhead.
Why Does This Matter?
Bruce Thompson, representing OkeRail, recently addressed our AGM to make a compelling case for improvement. Here’s a summary of the issues and challenges that must be addressed:
- Severe Service Gaps: The current bus service between Bude/Holsworthy and Okehampton operates just every three hours, making it effectively a six-hour service.
- Regional Inequity: All comparable or smaller communities in both Devon and Cornwall enjoy hourly bus connections to railheads. Bude and Holsworthy are left far behind.
- Economic and Social Disadvantage: This inadequate service isolates our communities, restricting access to education, employment, healthcare, and leisure opportunities compared to the rest of Devon and Cornwall.
- Collaboration Is Key: Devon and Cornwall must work together to bridge this county-border gap. Failure to act will undermine the consultation’s aspirations for a truly integrated transport network.
How Can You Help?
- Complete the Survey: Share your views on the current gaps in transport services. Let the council know that better bus connections are essential for the Bude and Holsworthy communities.
- Find the survey here.
- Spread the Word: Encourage friends, family, and neighbors in Devon to have their say. Every voice counts, and the more people who participate, the harder it will be for decision-makers to ignore this issue.
- Share the Case for Change: Highlight how integrated transport benefits everyone. A stronger bus service will not only connect Bude and Holsworthy to Okehampton but will also strengthen links across both counties.
Don’t Miss This Chance
The Devon Transport Plan is an opportunity to push for fair and equitable transport for our region. By improving the bus service to Okehampton, we can connect our communities to the national rail network, support local economies, and ensure no one is left behind.
Act now—complete the survey before the end of November and help us make a lasting difference for the people of Bude, Holsworthy, and beyond.
Together, we can bridge the gap and build a better-connected future.
