First changes in North Somerset

First West of England is making some changes to its network in North Somerset from 31 August, to better match its resources against the level of demand for services. Three services operating in Weston-super-Mare will be adjusted, while two services, providing connections between Bristol and parts of North Somerset will also change. The X5 (Weston-super-Mare – Portishead – Cribbs Causeway) and X6 (Bristol – Clevedon) services will see distinct improvements following partnership working between First and North Somerset Council. Specifically, Sunday and Public Holiday timetables are being introduced, giving local people and visitors many more opportunities to travel, from the end of August. One service in Weston-super-Mare is being withdrawn because it has continually failed to cover its operating costs despite, over a number of years, a range of measures being trialled and put in place to tackle under performance. Alternatives for people who used the service are in place.

Commercial Manager for First West of England, Simon Ford, said, ‘We are making a number of changes to our network at the end of August. Where we see opportunities for growth – for instance on Services X5 and X6 – we are working to increase the opportunities for people to travel by bus. This follows successful partnership working between ourselves and North Somerset Council. Elsewhere, where demand for bus journeys has fallen, we are reducing the frequency of buses slightly. This is a sensible response and means we are able to use our remaining resources as effectively as possible.’