Bus service between Salisbury and Andover improved

The frequency's been stepped up to every 20 minutes

Author: Faye TryhornPublished 13th Sep 2024
Last updated 13th Sep 2024

The Activ8 bus services, which run between Salisbury and Andover, are now running more often - to improve reliability for passengers.

The buses, also travelling through Amesbury, Bulford, Tidworth and Ludgershall, now operate every 20 minutes Monday to Saturday - an increase from twice an hour.

Wiltshire Council has worked with bus operators Salisbury Reds and Stagecoach on the changes, which are being funded by the Government.

Cllr Tamara Reay, Cabinet Member for Transport, said:

“Buses are an integral part of life in Wiltshire and not just for the young and old who cannot drive.

“Increasingly, those who can drive are choosing to travel by bus as it’s better for the environment and gives you time to relax while travelling. So, it’s really good that we are making these improvements to the Activ8 service, along with many other enhancements to bus services across Wiltshire.”

Wiltshire Councillor Tamara Reay (centre) with staff from Salisbury Reds and Stagecoach South, who operate the Activ8 buses

Andrew Sherrington, General Manager for Salisbury Reds, said:

“We are seeing a rise in demand for the Activ8, and we also want to make the service more reliable, so we are pleased to be making these improvements.

“The changes will be particularly useful for those changing shifts at the Home Bargains site – with journeys timed to coincide with these to-and-from Salisbury and Tidworth.

“With extra buses in use, we hope our customers will enjoy an improved, more reliable, service – whatever time they choose to travel.”

James O'Neill, Commercial Director for Stagecoach South, said:

"We're excited to make big improvements to Activ8 this September, in partnership with Wiltshire Council. The service is already one of the busiest in the region and we're looking forward to helping more residents try the bus for the first time. We'll be running a number of promotions in the months ahead to celebrate the new 20-minute timetable, with travel still great value at no more than £2 a trip."

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