£3.5millon boost to transform bus services across Cumberland
It comes after funding from the Department for Transport
Cumberland Council has approved plans to deliver a major expansion of local bus services, backed by £3.5 million in Government funding.
The funding, from the Department for Transport’s Bus Services Improvement Plan (BSIP), will support new and enhanced routes across the area, especially in places where services are currently limited or don’t operate commercially.
The council says it’s acted on feedback from residents and local groups to shape the proposals, with new routes, better links to hospitals and workplaces, and improved weekend and evening services.
Among the planned improvements are:
- A Sunday service between Carlisle and Anthorn, and more peak-time journeys.
- A new Whitehaven to Ravenglass route connecting coastal communities.
- An hourly express link between Carlisle and Cockermouth, supporting travel to Cumberland Infirmary and West Cumberland Hospital.
- Restored services such as Frizington to Workington, and Kirkbride to Carlisle – including better links to villages and community centres.
- A new town loop in Whitehaven and the return of buses serving Cockermouth town.
- Expanded rural coverage, including new stops and frequencies around Longtown, Penton, Wetheral and Dalston.
Some of the services introduced in late 2024, like the Maryport to Thornhill route, will also continue under the new plans.
The council says the upgrades depend on operators submitting tenders to run the routes, and more improvements could follow if further funding becomes available.
"building a better future for public transport"
Cllr Denise Rollo, Executive Member for Sustainable, Resilient and Connected Places, said:
“I am delighted that the Highways Strategic Board endorsed this procurement. Cumberland Council and its officers have worked exceptionally hard to get us to this point engaging closely with both the public and transport operators to understand their needs and ideas.
“This is the next step in building a better future for public transport in Cumberland, one that directly reflects what our communities have told us they want.
"This investment will enable us to deliver a more reliable, accessible, and sustainable bus network, connecting people to essential services and opportunities.
"It also supports our carbon reduction goals and encourages healthier lifestyles by providing real alternatives to car travel.
“While not all services may attract tenders, given market constraints such as vehicle and driver availability, Cumberland Council is committed to securing the best possible outcomes for residents within the available funding envelope.
“This initiative directly contributes to the council’s broader objectives as set out in the Cumberland Plan, particularly in improving health and wellbeing and supporting climate resilience through sustainable transport.”