The move follows months of complaints from residents, particularly older people, after the withdrawal of the number 25 bus service. The operator removed the route citing low passenger numbers, leaving parts of Kingshill and Wootton Bassett Road without a direct public transport link.
In a message shared with residents, South Swindon MP Heidi Alexander said she had been contacted by several people who were struggling following the loss of the service. She said she had been working with Swindon Borough Council and local bus companies to try to resolve the issue.
According to the MP, the council is now “imminently” going to tender for a new Wichelstowe bus service. Plans being explored include changes to the route and improvements to frequency, with the intention that buses would once again serve Kingshill Road, Wootton Bassett Road and Bath Road.
The proposed tender is being supported through a mix of developer contributions and increased government funding for public transport. This has allowed the council to look at a longer term solution rather than a short term measure.
Heidi Alexander also thanked Chris Watts for his involvement, along with residents who attended meetings, wrote in or shared their personal experiences after the bus service was withdrawn.
No timescale has yet been confirmed for when a new service could begin. Residents have been told further updates will be provided as the tender process moves forward.
