Council steps in to secure two bus routes in South Devon

Devon County Council has stepped in to secure the main sections of two bus routes in South Devon.

Bus operator Local Link is withdrawing its services which connect to Torbay. From Monday 3 April, a new contract will start with services operated by Country Bus to maintain links from two Devon villages to Paignton.

There will be five buses a day from Stoke Gabriel and one bus an hour from Marldon. The new contract has been awarded to Country Bus after a successful competitive tendering exercise.

Arrangements have also been made with Stagecoach to add a Saturday service to its Monday to Friday number 13 route, to maintain a link six days a week between Marldon, Torbay Hospital and The Willows, in place of Local Link.

The National Bus Pass, issued either by Devon County Council or Torbay Council, will continue to be valid on all parts of these services - after 9:30am Monday to Friday and at any time on Saturdays.

Councillor Stuart Hughes, Devon County Council Cabinet Member for Highway Management, said: “It’s unfortunate that Local Link has withdrawn from these services but we have acted swiftly to ensure that the services continue without interruption and that communities are not left isolated. I’m sure that National Bus Pass holders will be especially relieved to know that their local transport links are being preserved.”

Councillor Rosemary Rowe County Councillor for South Brent and Dartington, said: “I am absolutely delighted that Stoke Gabriel has been able to retain its bus service to and from Paignton. This is a vital link for some older people who do not have a car and need to get into town for the doctors, shopping and other services. The replacement services cater for virtually all Devon passengers currently using Local Link, albeit with some revised times. It is five times a day service instead of seven as previously, but that is perfectly adequate. Passengers will be reassured to know that they still have a range of travel times and fortunately Marldon has also been included in this service arrangement.”