Transdev has stepped in to secure the future of a key cross-Yorkshire bus service. Route 784 will now continue to provide a fast and direct link between the towns of Skipton, Ilkley and Otley, helping to support jobs in retail and tourism as all three communities grapple with the impact of the pandemic. The service will now run six days a week as part of Transdev subsidiary The Keighley Bus Company’s network of routes across the region.
General Manager at Transdev, Ben Mansfield said: “We’re really excited to bring our brand of friendly service already enjoyed by thousands of our customers across Yorkshire to this important new addition to our fast-growing network across the North.
“It’s also great news for our amazing team at our newest operating base in Bradford, who only last month began operating our new Flyer buses serving Leeds Bradford Airport, as we’ll create extra new jobs by taking on the 784 service.
“The 784 is a great fit alongside our existing services, and will offer easy connections to and from Keighley, Barnoldswick, Colne and Burnley, as well as Grassington and many smaller communities served by our friendly Wharfedale Links buses.
Confirmation that the future of the 784 service has been secured is being welcomed by Skipton Business Improvement District (BID), which has invested approximately £1.5 million in projects to boost the town’s economy.
Skipton BID chairman Andrew Mear said: “Skipton has successfully re-opened after the Covid-19 lockdown, with many independent shops and our weekly market thriving from local support and a high number of tourism arrivals enjoying the staycation experiences. We continue to adapt our business and visitor offering to be Covid-secure at all times, promoting Skipton as an attractive and safe destination to explore with so much to discover.
“We very much welcome Transdev’s decision to secure the future of the 784 service, providing a high quality, reliable and sustainable travel option as part of its wider network serving North and West Yorkshire and beyond.”
