Weymouth's Barry's Coaches to close after decades of service
It's because the business owners are retiring
A popular name in transport for South Dorset is closing this summer, after more than 30 years of business.
Barry's Coaches in Weymouth will cease operations at the end of July.
They've also said they're 'downsizing in preparation' by stopping some school routes, and trying to fulfil as many of their bookings as possible.
On their social media, the business said they were 'feeling sad' to make the announcement.
But they've also said the closure's due to retirement of their owners:
"Barry’s Coaches are in the process of restructuring operations with a view to downsizing in preparation for the retirement of key members of the family owned company. Closure of operations will be 31st July.
"We are endeavouring to honour and uphold the majority of bookings and will be liaising with customers directly.
"We would like to take this opportunity to thank all our customers and staff for their loyalty and support over the years."
School contracts sorted
The imminent closure of Barry's has meant some school services are being affected.
But Dorset Council has confirmed to Greatest Hits Radio that new operators have been found for all the routes until the end of the academic year, as follows:
- Puddletown First School & St Mary’s Middle School, Puddletown – service number ME001 – to be run by Transpora Group
- St Mary’s First School, Charminster – service number ME007 – run by Redwoods Travel Ltd
- St Mary’s Middle School, Puddletown – service number ME005 – run by Transpora Group
- Dorset Studio School – service number ME006 – run by Transpora Group
- St Osmund’s Middle School – service numbers ME014 & ME015 – run by Transpora Group
- Wey Valley School – service number MF004 – run by Seaward Travel Ltd
Dorset Council say the schools have been informed and they will let parents know about any changes directly.