Campaigners and Councillors have been heartened to learn this week that First Bus will be reinstating some of the 379 journeys which had recently been axed. A campaign, organised by Paulton B&NES Councillors, John Bull and Liz Hardman, along with residents, such as Cyril Mitchard, Terrie Stocker and Amanda Wise, saw a petition launched both online and in shops and services locally, with 835 signatures collected.

The petition was presented to the Managing Director of First Bus, James Freeman, at a meeting in the Guildhall, Bath, this week, at which he announced some of the changes that will be made to bus routes in our area.

However, campaigners believe these changes are still quite limited, with three extra buses following the old 379 route. John Bull said: “There will be a limited peak hour service with two ‘fast buses’ from Paulton to Bristol in the morning and one journey back from Bristol in the evening. These buses will be on a newly named route, number 177.”

Cyril Mitchard (Paulton Parish Councillor, but speaking in a personal capacity), said: “It’s a shame that First Bus and B&NES have only agreed to these three journeys from Paulton to Bristol. More are needed on the return journey and at morning peak times. There is still no direct bus from Paulton to Bristol on a Sunday.”

Other changes include the 172 operating in a loop, including Downsway, with all of these changes taking place from November 13th.

Paulton Ward Councillor, Liz Hardman, added: “Whereas we appreciate the efforts made by First Bus and B&NES to reinstate some services previously offered by the 379, we are disappointed that only three new bus journeys are planned – but it is a start.

“We now need to keep the pressure on First Bus and B&NES to show that more services on the new 177 (but old 379) are needed.

Residents need to keep contacting First Bus and B&NES’ Cabinet member for Transport, Tony Clarke, and your local B&NES Councillors to let us know where more services are needed.”