Bus services axed

Stagecoach is planning to axe vital bus routes in the Bedford area from 31st May, 2026. Henry Vann, Leader of Bedford Borough Liberal Democrats and Borough Councillor for De Parys ward in Bedford, commented: 

“Across the urban area we are seeing important routes axed. The Conservative-led Council has totally mishandled their responsibility for the local bus network. £300,000 of extra government funding to support bus routes in Bedford Borough has instead been used to offset the council’s financial crisis.”

“Other places are seeing growth in bus use, but the short-sighted, reactionary approach of the Conservatives here is seeing cuts upon cuts.  It is local residents who are suffering from these failings.”

Councillor Michael Headley, Borough Councillor for Putnoe, said, “Axing these bus routes is devastating for local residents.  After reductions and diversions last year, bus users of Putnoe,  Goldington and the north of Bedford have now been hit with these routes being axed altogether.  We have been campaigning against these cuts since the rumours started to surface and the changes to the other routes to compensate fall far, far short of what is needed.” 

“Back in 2024 Putnoe Lane was served by 4 buses an hour – now these proposals give just 6 buses a day!  And Putnoe Street now loses all its buses.  It can’t be overstated how these changes will seriously impact people who rely on the bus services and don’t have access to a car.  It is devastating. The council needs to step up and work to restore a decent, reliable network in this area.”

Goldington councillor Christine McHugh said, “These massive cuts affect people’s ability to get to work, the shops, the doctor, the dentist. If you have mobility issues, you may be left high and dry as far as the buses are concerned.”