NEWSROOM

This announcement marks the second in a series of updates ahead of the relaunch of the improved services which come into effect on Monday, July 21.

The decision to move to an hourly service reflects the Council’s commitment to delivering a more reliable, accessible, and responsive public transport offer for residents across Shawbirch, Admaston, Dothill, Wellington, Hadley, Ketley Bank, Malinslee, and the Telford Town Centre.

The Council received nearly 100 individual responses from residents, highlighting a range of concerns and suggestions. The most common themes included:

• The need for more frequent and consistent services, particularly during peak hours and evenings
• Requests for a faster, more direct route between Shawbirch, Wellington, and Telford
• Difficulty reaching key destinations such as the Princess Royal Hospital, Shawbirch Medical Centre, and local retail parks

In response, the Council has acted to introduce an hourly service on the 99a and 99c routes, ensuring more regular and dependable connections for communities across North Telford and is part of a broader effort to improve public transport provision across the borough.

Telford & Wrekin Council’s own bus services continue to prove highly popular, with over 600,000 passenger journeys recorded to date. The Council remains committed to investing in services that meet the needs of residents and support sustainable travel choices.

As part of routine maintenance and the renewal of operating contracts, Telford & Wrekin Council will also be introducing a refreshed appearance for the 99a and 99c bus services.

This practical measure is to ensure that council-operated buses remain well-maintained, clearly identifiable, and aligned with the borough’s commitment to accessible and affordable travel.

The updated buses will help passengers easily recognise council-run services - particularly given that these buses continue to offer one of the lowest single fares in the Midlands, with a flat rate of just £2 per journey.

The rebranding forms part of the Council’s broader efforts to improve the visibility of its public transport network, while maintaining excellent value for money. Timetable revisions will be in place from Monday, 21 July, and passengers may also notice a mix of vehicle appearances until the new coverings are completed in August.

Councillor Ollie Vickers, (Lab) Cabinet Member for the Economy & Transport said: “We’ve listened carefully to what residents have told us, and we’re acting on it. The move to an hourly service is a direct response to what people need - more regular, more reliable buses that connect them to the places that matter.

“This is about making public transport work better for everyone, and we’re proud to be delivering these improvements as part of our wider commitment to accessible, affordable travel.

“Our investment into the services, underlines Telford & Wrekin Council’s commitment to supporting residents and businesses. It’s all part of our vision to protect, care and invest to create a better borough, which we’re achieving whilst ensuring our residents continue to pay the lowest Council Tax in the Midlands.”

Full details of the revised timetable is available here and further route improvements to other services will be announced in due course.

The Council is working closely with its transport partners to ensure a smooth transition to the new service and to maintain high standards of reliability and accessibility.

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