More buses and Saturday service for rural routes

The 102 and 103 services will benefit from more buses and a Saturday service, Telford & Wrekin Council says

Rural bus passengers in Telford borough are set to benefit from more buses and a Saturday service.

Telford & Wrekin Council has announced a series of upgrades for the 102 and 103 bus services.

They will now operate every two hours, while Saturday journeys will be introduced for the first time.

According to the council, these adjustments follow passenger concerns around limited weekend service and infrequent bus times.

The 102 service connects Newport, Church Aston, Lilleshall, Muxton, Donnington, the Princess Royal Hospital, and Wellington.

The council described it a "lifeline" for residents "needing access to healthcare, education, and employment".

It said key concerns raised by members of the public included an irregular service and lack of evening or Saturday buses, as well as overcrowding during school runs leading to students being left behind.

Residents also described the route as underused outside school hours, with some suggesting it be restructured or better integrated with other services.

The changes will be in operation from Monday, including the 105 service being integrated into the 103 timetable, which the council said ensured continuity.

Additional signage and clearer information will also be rolled out to support passengers.

A spokesperson for the council said: "These changes are part of a wider effort to strengthen rural connectivity and ensure council-run services are delivering value for money and real benefit to local communities.

"As with other Travel Telford services, the 102 and 103 will also receive a refreshed appearance as part of routine maintenance and contract renewal.

"This is a practical update, designed to make council-operated buses easier to identify and more consistent across the network."

Passengers may also notice a mix of vehicle appearances until the recognisable designs are completed and rolled out in August.