£8.6 million investment drives better bus links

A multi-million-pound investment is strengthening public transport links for communities across the Tees Valley.

New and improved services are being rolled out across the region from today (September 28), providing passengers with better links to hospitals, colleges, employment sites, town centres and shopping destinations.

Backed by Tees Valley Combined Authority (TVCA), the changes follow a comprehensive review of the supported bus network and include new routes alongside improvements to existing services.

More than £8.6 million has been committed to securing services until at least March 2028, with a number of other routes protected until March 2027.

Steve Walker, managing director for Stagecoach North East, said: “We’re pleased to be working with the TVCA Tees to introduce these new and improved services, helping people across the region get to the places that matter to them.

“From connecting communities in Port Clarence and Long Newton with key destinations including North Tees Hospital, Stockton and Teesside Park, to strengthening links to jobs, education and essential services, these changes will make a real difference to local communities.”

Richard McGowan, head of commercial at Arriva North East and Yorkshire, added: “We’re pleased to be working with the Combined Authority to deliver a number of new and improved services, helping to improve connectivity for local communities.

“We look forward to welcoming customers on board and continuing to work in partnership with the Combined Authority to identify further opportunities to improve the local bus network.”

The investment has been made possible through increased Government funding, with almost £26 million available to support bus services across the Tees Valley until April 2029.

Passengers aged 21 and under will also continue to benefit from the region’s £1 fare cap, alongside a £3 day ticket offer.

The TVCA says the investment is designed to protect important connections for communities while improving access to employment, education, healthcare and other essential services across the region.

Tees Valley mayor Ben Houchen said: “We’re introducing new services and improving existing routes because we want people across Teesside, Darlington and Hartlepool to have better access to opportunities on their doorsteps.

“Whether it’s getting to work, college, the hospital or the shops, reliable bus services are important, and these new links will help connect more people to the places that matter most.

“We've listened, worked closely with operators and councils, and made sure these new routes target the areas where they can make the biggest difference.”

Councillor Steve Harker, TVCA cabinet member for transport and infrastructure and leader of Darlington Borough Council, added: “These improvements will strengthen the bus network across the Tees Valley and support communities in both urban and rural areas.

“Good public transport helps people access education, employment, healthcare and leisure opportunities and is an important part of creating a connected network.

“From The Clarences to Long Newton, Elton and School Aycliffe, we’re securing existing services and introducing new routes to provide greater choice and better links between our towns, villages and key destinations.”

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