Changes to bus service in Nantwich to begin in July
Bus service changes in Nantwich will be implemented this July, affecting routes 51, 52, 53, and 84 following community feedback. One of the key changes includes the introduction of a new route between Leighton Hospital and Nantwich, now passing through Wistaston to provide direct service to Birchin Lane. However, this change means that the Sainsbury’s supermarket on Middlewich Road will no longer be directly served by these routes, with passengers needing to transfer to the service 85 at Nantwich Bus Station to access it.
Moreover, service 51 will be running exclusively on schooldays, with buses transitioning to operate as service 52 on Saturdays and during school holidays. This change aims to improve connectivity and provide additional journeys via Millfields. Similarly, service 84 will see changes from July 27, including a half-hourly service between Crewe, Nantwich, and Chester from Monday to Saturday. The timings will be adjusted to provide half-hourly intervals throughout the day, with a new 6 am service from Nantwich to Crewe catering specifically to early morning commuters. Additionally, the 84 will now operate on Sundays as well.
Cllr Anna Burton, a supporter of a direct bus service to Leighton Hospital, expressed her support for the changes as she believes buses are essential in reducing car usage, carbon footprint, and infrastructure strain. She highlighted that the latest changes will greatly enhance bus services in the area, benefiting residents of Birchin Lane with access to a bus service after many years and boosting connectivity in Wistaston. The introduction of the Sunday service for the 84 route was specifically welcomed by the community, anticipating an improvement in the public transport system.
Overall, these changes aim to enhance connectivity, improve frequency, and cater to commuters’ needs in and around Nantwich. With the support of the community and local authorities, these adjustments are expected to streamline the bus services in the area and provide residents with more accessible and efficient transportation options. The enhanced bus services are a step towards a more sustainable and environmentally friendly mode of transportation, encouraging the community to opt for public transport over private vehicles to reduce their carbon footprint and alleviate pressure on existing infrastructure.