New bus routes for Yeovil

A new bus service has been launched in Yeovil that links key residential and employment sites using the same bus.

The new service has been developed by South West Coaches and follows discussion between the local bus operators and the South Somerset Together (SST) partnership.

Its introduction follows gaps in the network identified in a travel survey undertaken by SST earlier this year. The commercial service offers opportunities to travel between residential areas and employment sites in both the east and west of town including key facilities in the town.

Service 11 offers an hourly bus serving Abbey Manor, Larkhill Road , ASDA, West Hendford , the Lynx West Trading Estate & SSDC's Brympton Way offices, the town centre and Tesco.

It then offers a 'seamless connection' - the same bus operates a through journey with no change of bus - with Service 12, which provides a 30 minute frequency to the Bucklers Mead, St John's Road and the Hospital.

Both these routes offer interchange with other routes at the Bus Station including the South West Coaches Service 68, which serves both rail stations, the Lyde Road area of Yeovil and Barwick and Stoford.

The Service was formally launched by Cllr. Henry Hobhouse, SSDC's Portfolio Holder for Property, Climate Change & Transport.

In addition, South West Coaches is offering customers a variety of ticket buying options that would further reduce the cost of the fare, making travel by bus cheaper than using a car.

For further details including timetables see South West Coaches or call 01935 475872.

Councillor Henry Hobhouse commented: "The introduction of this route enables greater access to many of Yeovil's facilities and employment areas, especially for those who don't have access to a car, those who wish to travel in a more environmentally friendly way, and save money, or for those who perhaps are finding it difficult to afford running a second car.

"SSDC will continue to work with other partners including all the bus operators to encourage the greater use of public transport in Yeovil and throughout the district."

South West Coaches Managing Director Alan Graham added: "We are pleased to launch this service in conjunction with SCC and SSDC to improve bus links within Yeovil to major employers.

"Offering easier and cheaper travel alternatives to passengers is part of our aim to increase bus patronage."