Residents in two areas of Oxford will have continued access to bus services in the new year following action and investment by Oxfordshire County Council. The council launched a tender process for new bus services following Oxford Bus Company’s announcement of its withdrawal of two routes from 8 January. From that date, both areas will instead be served by a new Stagecoach route which will operate up to half-hourly to Northway and hourly to Risinghurst seven days a week, also opening up new links to Oxford’s John Radcliffe Hospital and railway station.
Councillor Andrew Gant, Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Highways Management, said: “Public transport is one of this council’s policy priorities, so I am thrilled that we have acted swiftly to solve one of the many challenges facing our bus services.
“Without this investment, as well as our close working relationship with the bus companies, residents in areas of the city which rely most heavily on bus services might have been left without them. As the highways authority, we are proud that our commitment to public transport is resulting in positive action for the people who need it.”
Managing Director of Stagecoach West Rachel Geliamassi said: “We’re really pleased that we’ve been able to support Oxfordshire County Council in maintaining a frequent bus service for residents in Northway and Risinghurst. We’re looking forward to welcoming new customers on board from 8 January.”
