Agenda item

To discuss matters arising from the notes not covered in later agenda items.

Update on the No28 Bus Service – Sam Murrell advised the meeting that the Bus Advisory Board had met the previous day (Tuesday 6 February). The agenda can be viewed on the Somerset Council website here. An item for discussion was the proposed timetable changes from 15 April 2024.

It was proposed to reduce the No28 service to a frequency of every 45 minutes, and to incorporate Cotford St Luke on some journeys (as the No25 service will be withdrawn). Concern was expressed from the room about the reduction in service to Bishops Lydeard and Cotford St Luke as they were both “growing villages”. This would put pressure on the No28 at the Taunton end of the route.

In addition it was planned to introduce a x28 direct fast service for the summer months. This would run directly from Taunton to Butlins and would be specifically to cater for holiday makers.

The Exmoor Coaster Bus service would be re-introduced to cover the tourist season. (31 March – 28 September).

The meeting is available to view on Youtube. The relevant part of the discussion starts at 1:03:19.

Cllr Richard Wilkins (Lead member for Transport & Digital) advised that he was disappointed that the service would be facing reductions. Meetings were being planned with the operator to discuss options going forward.