Public transport continues to be a major issue for communities like Bude and the wider North Cornwall area. For some people, buses are essential for accessing work, education, healthcare and social connections. For others, the current network simply doesn’t work at all.
Cornwall Council is currently asking residents for their views on bus services through a short public survey. This is an important opportunity for people in rural areas to say what they need from the bus network — and what would actually make buses a realistic option.
What the Survey Is Asking
The survey focuses on priorities for improvement, rather than general satisfaction. It asks questions such as:
- What are your priorities for improving bus services and bus stops?
- Do you have any other suggestions for improving bus services in Cornwall?
(You can refer to specific routes or services if relevant.) - Which features are most important to you at a bus stop?
For example, shelter, seating, lighting, real-time information, or accessibility. - What would encourage you to consider using the bus to make some of your journeys?
Importantly, the survey is for everyone — whether you use buses regularly, occasionally, or not at all. If you don’t currently use buses, your views on why — and what would need to change — are just as valuable.
Why This Matters for Bude and Rural Communities
Rural areas face very different challenges from towns and cities. Longer distances, fewer routes, limited service hours and poor connections mean buses often don’t line up with real daily needs.
For places like Bude, this affects access to jobs, education, healthcare and rail connections. When services are infrequent, indirect or poorly timed, the result is simple: people are left with no choice but to drive.
This survey is a chance to clearly set out what would make bus services more usable and reliable for rural communities.
Take Part – It Only Takes a Few Minutes
The Cornwall Bus Travel Survey is open now and closes on 18 January 2026.
Taking part is one of the simplest ways to make sure rural experiences and priorities are reflected in future transport planning.
👉 Complete the survey here:
https://letstalk.cornwall.gov.uk/bus-network
Please Share
Even if buses don’t currently work for you, this survey gives you the opportunity to explain what would need to change. Please consider sharing it with friends, family and local groups so as many voices as possible are heard.
Good public transport underpins access to opportunity and community life. This is your chance to influence how it develops in Cornwall.
