An initially free bus network in Leighton Buzzard, operated by Arriva and funded by Central Bedfordshire Council, has been officially launched.
The services began in May and replace former routes that had proved commercially unsustainable. Travel within the town will be free until Christmas 2023, while the government £2 fare cap will apply to journeys further afield.
Funding comes via a combination of Section 106 developer funding and Bus Service Improvement Plan (BSIP) money.
The new routes L1, L2, L3, L4, L5 and L6 and replaced the previous 32, 33, 34, 35, 36C and D1 services, which were sorely missed by residents according to local press. However, the council said the new network serves all parts of town, including three new housing developments for the first time.
Matt King, Arriva’s network manager for the South Midlands, says: “Our successful partnership with Central Bedfordshire Council to deliver free buses is great news for everyone in Leighton Buzzard, helping local businesses thrive as well as reducing emissions and congestion.
“The new Leighton buses network is innovative in its holistic approach to make sure there are sustainable transport options for the area’s new communities.
“The top-down design ensures that onward travel, with both our existing interurban bus network and with direct links with the fast trains to and from London, presents a joined-up sustainable transport offering with seamless connections between public transport options.”
The fleet of Euro VI buses will run seven days a week, including into the evenings, and will feature audio-visual displays, free Wi-fi and USB charging points.
Councillor Tracey Wye, Central Bedfordshire Council’s executive member for sustainability and climate resilience, adds: “The new routes in Leighton Buzzard have increased connectivity across the town, enabling more people to take advantage of public transport.
“The timetable takes into account the fast trains to London, which is essential to encourage commuters onto buses.
“Our challenge is how to create a decent service for all our residents who rely on buses while making public transport a realistic alternative to driving. Everyone should have the opportunity to shrink their carbon footprint and reduce their dependency on car ownership, which will improve air quality and could save people money.”
