Consultation on changes to Barnsley bus network to begin

The newly-formed Barnsley Bus Partnership has come up with a new strategy, which includes changes to bus routes and service numbers. The partnership hopes to better meet the needs of people living in, working in, and visiting the town.

The partnership includes Stagecoach Yorkshire, Arriva, TM Travel, Globe Coaches, Waterson Coaches, Barnsley Council and South Yorkshire Passenger Transport Executive (SYPTE) to tackle the public transport development objectives in Sheffield City Region’s Devolution Deal.

Managing director of Stagecoach Yorkshire Paul Lynch said “The Barnsley Bus Partnership is about working together for the benefit of passengers across the town. Working together will help us offer more travel flexibility for passengers, which can only help further grow the number of people using public transport in their local community.”

Public consultation will run from Monday, June 13 to Sunday, July 31 online at travelsouthyorkshire.com/bbp. Paper feedback forms will be available from customer service desks in Barnsley, Doncaster, Rotherham, Meadowhall, and Sheffield interchanges for those without access to the internet. Consultation drop-in sessions with Barnsley Bus Partnership representatives will take place at:

Barnsley Interchange, June 15 from 8am to 11am

Barnsley Central Library, June 17 from 2pm to 5pm

Royston Library, June 22 from 9am to 12pm

Grimethorpe Library, June 24 from 9am to 12pm

Barnsley Interchange, June 27 from 3pm to 6pm

Hoyland Library, June 29 from 2pm to 5pm

Wombwell Library, July 5 from 2pm to 5pm

Penistone Library, July 7 from 3pm to 6pm

Barnsley Interchange, July 11 from 3pm to 6pm

Goldthorpe Library, July 14 from 3pm to 6pm

Barnsley Interchange, July 19 from 3pm to 6pm

The Darton Centre, 27 July from 2pm to 5pm

Feedback will be used to inform decision-making on the proposed bus service changes, which are expected to be implemented in January 2017.

Banrsley Council leader Sir Steve Houghton said: “Barnsley Bus Partnership is committed to progressing the aims of the Sheffield City Region Devolution Deal to improve public transport in our region.

“Our proposals aim to provide a bus service offer that is coordinated, efficient and affordable. We want a service that better meets customer needs, supports access to employment, training and leisure and also aligns with our plans to create a thriving and vibrant economy. The council has developed a long-term plan to grow the economy for the borough and this includes providing better public transport and infrastructure. This new bus service offer will also contribute to reducing congestion and improving air quality.”