BUS and coach operator Stagecoach West has announced additional bus services in Wiltshire and Swindon as life gets back to normal.

The changes will come into effect from Monday (August 9) to accommodate increased school and commuter travel following the easing of Covid-19 restrictions.

The bus company has worked closely with local authorities throughout the pandemic to ensure that an appropriate level of service is always provided.

The changes reflect an increase in the number of passengers using bus services in the county.

Rachel Geliamassi, managing director at Stagecoach West, said: “After a tough 18 months for everyone during the pandemic, we are pleased to be in a position to increase our service levels to support weekend and commuter travel.

"As lockdown restrictions have gradually been lifted, we have seen a steady increase in the number of people relying on bus travel as part of their day-to-day lives.

"Through our new and improved services, we are delighted to be able to help reconnect local residents with the things that matter most to them.”

Additional weekend services will be introduced to the 9, 10, 55 and S6 routes. The 9 service will also return to its normal route via Lady Lane, instead of Blunsdon.

To accommodate more commuters, a later weekday evening service to Tadpole Garden Village is being added to the 9 service and a new Sunday evening journey on the S6 will benefit workers at Symmetry Park.

The 57 service is also being updated and will now run via The Street and Haydonleigh Drive.

Students travelling to Highworth Warneford School will use the 7 service from September, instead of the temporary 907.

Abbeyfield School students will return to the 55; while students at St John’s School in Marlborough will use the 80, and Ridgeway School in Wroughton will return to the 82.

Students at Kingshill School, Cirencester, will benefit from a new Cricklade link on the C53 from September, which will replace dedicated journeys on the 51.

Full details of the new timetables are now available on the Stagecoach West website at https://www.stagecoachbus.com/service-updates/