Lynmouth to Minehead bus rides again

The 300 Coastal Link Lynmouth to Minehead bus pictured on Countisbury Hill.

Tony Gussin Tuesday, March 19, 2013
4:29 PM

Brighter future promised for popular open-top coastal service as Exmoor National park Authority steps in to help ensure it will continue.

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THE popular open-top Exmoor 300 Lynmouth to Minehead bus service looks set for a brighter future following a decision by Exmoor National Park Authority to provide it with one-off funding of £30,000.

It is hoped the money, plus changes to ticket options and the introduction of a new single decker open-top vehicle will enable operator Quantock Motor Services Limited to keep it going.

Its future was in doubt last year after Somerset County Council decided to withdraw a subsidy supporting the summer service, but in the end the council agreed to subsidise half.

This year there is no subsidy, but with the National Park’s support and a new business model, including a through link to Ilfracombe from Minehead plus a sight-seeing journey guide, it is hoped the route can become self sustaining.

The authority said developments to the route will be introduced over the summer and it was intended to operate a year around service, with up to five journeys a day, seven days a week, during peak season.

“Local communities and businesses really benefit from the route and there will be opportunities for them to support the service in the future through advertising in the journey guide,” said Frances Nicholson, at the authority.

“We’ve been very impressed with the operator’s commitment to provide an ongoing year around service that can stand on its own feet.”