Ten months after Stagecoach took over as Guernsey’s bus operator, the States have announced a series of changes they say are aimed at improving services.
Several tweaks are being proposed to “improve punctuality, reliability, and accuracy of the bus timetable”.
Environment and Infrastructure says this aims to better serve key locations and increase bus usage, all “at no net additional cost”.
The proposed changes can be seen in full below, and include dropping several “low usage routes”, printing tickets only on request, and adjusting certain routes to better accommodate locations like Beau Sejour, the Hospital, and the Harbour.
The move follows last week’s announcement of more electric buses being added to the local fleet.
After an initial trial last year, two have been purchased by the States for Stagecoach to use.
The Committee for the Environment & Infrastructure says its bringing forward the changes following some data analysis carried out by Stagecoach, which has identified various potential areas for improvement.
Deputy Adrian Gabriel, E&I President, said it will make things better for all bus users.
“I’m really pleased to be able to propose some improvements to our bus services, on which so many members of our community and visitors rely.
“Our partners at Stagecoach have provided us with a strong data-driven evidence base to inform these proposed changes.
“While some members of the travelling public might have reservations about change, I can reassure them that the changes being proposed are based on evidence and will ensure that resources are allocated more efficiently across the wider transport network.”
Deputy Gabriel added: “Stagecoach have again proved their worth and highlights the benefit of partnering with the UK’s largest bus and coach operator.
“In the current financial climate, it’s really important that these changes are cost neutral. Increasing and improving services means that we have to make adjustments elsewhere.
“I’m confident, however, that this improves Guernsey bus offering as a whole, improving punctuality, increasing coverage and continuing to make bus travela more attractive choice.”
Peter Knight, the Managing Director of Stagecoach South West, said he’s looking forward to the changes, and how they’ll benefit customers.
“Since taking on the operation of Guernsey’s bus services, our priority has been to work closely with the Committee for the Environment & Infrastructure to understand how the network is performing and where it can be improved.
“By analysing detailed operational and customer data, we have identified opportunities to make services more punctual, reliable and easier to understand, while better connecting people to the places that matter most to them.”
Mr Knight concluded: “These proposed changes are about making the best possible use of existing resources to deliver a simpler, more resilient network that meets the needs of both islanders and visitors, and we welcome feedback as part of this consultation process.”
All the proposed changes can be viewed on the States website HERE, and members of the public can provide feedback by emailing passengertransport@gov.gg, (deadline of 8 February).
Alternatively, submissions are also available in writing to The Senior Passenger Transport Officer, Driver & Vehicle Licensing, Edward T Wheadon House, Le Truchot, St Peter Port, GY1 3WH.
There will also be two opportunities for members of the public to find out more about the changes in person at the bus terminus shop on Tuesday 27 January, between 16:00 and 18:00, and on Wednesday 28 January, from 12:00 until 14:00.