New night routes and earlier starts for city's buses

First Bus said it wants to better serve the nighttime economy

A number of changes have been announced to bus routes in Bristol, including the city's first ever 24-hour service.

First Bus said it was also adding earlier journeys onto some routes and extending the length of others to improve its network.

The operator said it was also boosting services between the University of Bristol and the University of the West of England, the city centre and student residences.

The changes will come in from 31 August, when the m1 metrobus service will operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week, with a new half-hourly overnight service designed "to keep pace with the needs of our vibrant night-time economy", First Bus said.

The M1 metrobus operates between Cribbs Causeway and Hengrove Park.

The 39 and 1 will run overnight services from Monday to Saturday, with the 2/2a, 4, 5, 6, 73 and 74 operating overnight on Fridays and Saturdays.

Among the routes being extended are the 16, which will now run from Fishponds to Whitchurch via Temple Meads creating a new link between the south and east of the city, and the 43, which is being rerouted to include Temple Meads Station.

The 1, 24, 41, 72, 73 and 74 will start earlier on week days, First Bus said, to better serve those working early shifts.

George Burton, head of network for First Bus in the West of England, said: "These changes are designed to support people who live, work and study in the city and to keep pace with the needs of our vibrant night-time economy."

He thanked Bristol City Council and the West of England Combined Authority for their support for the improvements.

Passengers are advised to check time tables before travelling when the changes come into force.

More information about changes to services can be found on the First Bus website.