Go-Ahead-owned Morebus is launching a new route providing new travel opportunities and linking Burton on the south coast with Christchurch and Somerford. Previously, services to Burton were limited, with no buses at peak times or on Sundays. Thanks to additional Government funding, the new hourly Service 23 operates from 0700-1900hrs on Mondays to Saturdays and on Sundays from 0900-1700hrs.
The new timetable includes buses at peak times, allowing local residents access to work, education, shopping and healthcare opportunities. According to the operator, around 22% of the households in the parish do not have access to a car, which is equivalent to the Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council average. The service enhancement, said the company, ensures Burton residents now benefit from a convenient bus service comparable to other areas.
“We know there is great demand for a more frequent route linking these areas, so we’re delighted to have been awarded the tender to operate these buses,” said Morebus Managing Director, Andrew Wickham. “Our team is looking forward to welcoming people on board the new route 23 from next month. Not only will it make the area more accessible for all, it will also give people the opportunity to leave their cars at home and use sustainable transport instead.
“Passengers travelling with us can also use our app to plan their journeys and buy their tickets. The technology allows them to see exactly where their bus is in real time, and they can even work out how much CO2 they are saving, compared to driving a car.”
