New plans aim to improve reliability and efficiency of Guernsey’s buses

The changes are designed to simplify the timetable, target buses where there's demand and drop or re route less busy services.

Under Environment and Infrastructure's proposals, which are driven by data from operator Stagecoach, the P2, 60 and 94 routes would go, but existing buses would cover any stops lost.

The night bus route would be expanded and services like the 61 would miss out less busy stops west of Kings Mills and re route.

Popular places, like the hospital and Beau Sejour, will get more buses.

Other suggestions include putting visitor attractions on bus route maps and printing tickets only on request.

Environment and Infrastructure president Deputy Adrian Gabriel hopes the Guernsey public will welcome change, which he says come at no extra overall cost.

“Our partners at Stagecoach have provided us with a strong data-driven evidence base to inform these proposed changes.

"While some members of the travelling public might have reservations about change, I can reassure them that the changes being proposed are based on evidence and will ensure that resources are allocated more efficiently across the wider transport network.

“In the current financial climate, it’s really important that these changes are cost-neutral.

"Increasing and improving services means that we have to make adjustments elsewhere.

"I’m confident, however, that this improves Guernsey bus offering as a  whole, improving punctuality, increasing coverage and continuing to make bus travel a more attractive choice.”

Stagecoach Southwest Managing Director Peter Knight says the company has been reviewing ways to improve efficiency since taking over the bus service ten months ago.

“Our priority has been to work closely with the Committee for the Environment & Infrastructure to understand how the network is performing and where it can be improved.

"By analysing detailed operational and customer data, we have identified opportunities to make services more punctual, reliable and easier to understand, while better connecting people to the places that matter most to them.

"These proposed changes are about making the best possible use of existing resources to deliver a simpler, more resilient network that meets the needs of both islanders and visitors, and we welcome feedback as part of this consultation process.”

All proposed changes are available on the States website, and feedback can be sent to the Senior Passenger Transport Officer at Edward T Wheadon House by 8 February.

There will be two information events at the bus terminus shop next week, on 27 January from 4pm to 6pm and 28 January from 12pm to 2pm.