More buses to Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital announced
Bus passengers travelling to and from the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital will benefit from the latest bus service enhancements resulting from Norfolk County Council's Bus Service Improvement Plan.
From this Sunday, 31 August, there will be additional buses running on the 26/26A evening and Sunday services between the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital and Bowthorpe.
The frequency of buses on the 21/21A route between Old Catton and the hospital also increases from next week, changing from every 20 minutes to every 15 minutes, Monday to Saturday. Also, the new 21/21A timetable includes earlier journeys, Monday to Friday, and more evening services Monday to Saturday.
The improvements to these routes, which are operated by First Bus, have been made possible through funding received from central government as part of Norfolk's Bus Service Improvement Plan.
Cllr Graham Plant, cabinet member for highways, infrastructure and transport, said: "These new improvements to local bus services are fantastic news. By increasing frequency and extending operating hours, we're making public transport more accessible and convenient.
"Norfolk residents have already taken over 28 million bus journeys this year—up 9% from the last year—thanks in part to our Bus Service Improvement Plan. I'm particularly happy to see more routes to the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital as it means we're making it easier for more people to get to work, appointments, and to visit loved ones."
James McCluskey, Commercial Director at First Bus East of England, commented: "The updates we are making to our network are designed to improve local connectivity within the area, making travel easier for communities across Norwich.
"We're committed to building a reliable, modern bus network that meets local needs. For many, the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital is an essential destination, and the improvements to these services will make the bus a much more accessible and convenient option."
This is one of a number of service enhancements which are being funded by the £15.9 million in funding for 2025/26 from the Department for Transport (DfT). This is in addition to the £49.5m of funding received in previous rounds of funding from the DfT which is to be used on improving bus services across the county.
Approximately £12 million of the funding has been allocated to provide new or expanded bus routes and increase service frequencies on key routes, including more evening and weekend services.
