Bus timetables introduced on routes 2,8 and 9 from Kidlington, Barton and Rsinghurst into Oxford city centre are being amended from Sunday, February 19.
The timetables, which were brought in during July last year when the Oxford SmartZone ticketing scheme was launched, are being changed to improve bus punctuality and reduce congestion, while improving services to Barton. SmartZone allows people to buy a ticket on the first Oxford Bus Company, Stagecoach or Thames Travel bus that comes along.
The new timetables on routes 8 & 9 will see more time given to buses to allow for worsening delays exiting Bayswater Road onto the Green Road roundabout in the morning, and additional buses added to the Barton service to give departures every six minutes. The route 2 timetable will also be adjusted to provide a more reliable service in the morning peak period and on Sundays.
Martin Sutton, managing director of Stagecoach, said: “Following feedback from passengers and our staff we have been working hard with Oxford Bus Company and Oxfordshire County Council to make significant improvements to these services. We are pleased to now be launching these changes which will provide a more reliable service for passengers.”
Philip Kirk, Oxford Bus Company managing director, said: "The joint ticketing system has revolutionised bus travel in the city since it was introduced last year. By and large there have been few teething troubles. However the Headington, Risinghurst and Barton corridor has seen an increase in passengers using the service and increased traffic congestion.
"We are confident these changes will bring a significant improvement in the short term. We are engaged in talks with the county council’s highways team to explore ways of improving the exit from Barton on to Headington roundabout.”
For more information, visit www.stagecoachbus.com or www.oxfordbus.co.uk
