BUS JOURNEYS are becoming “increasingly popular” in the conurbation, a top bus chief has said as data reveals bus journeys have nearly doubled in a year. 

Statistics from the government shows a total of 17.1 million bus journeys were taken by passengers in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole in the year running up to March 2022.

This is more than seven million more journeys than in the previous year – which saw travel restricted because of coronavirus.

Morebus managing director Andrew Wickham said: “I am delighted by these latest figures - which show that travelling by bus is becoming increasingly popular in this region.  

Bournemouth Echo:

“Bus travel has changed beyond recognition over recent years, and those who haven’t travelled with us for a while will be amazed at the enhancements we have made.” 

Earlier this month, Morebus announced it had invested £7.7million into its fleet and bought 28 new double-decker buses, equipped with USB charging points. 

Read more: The behind-the-scenes story of how Yellow Buses collapsed

The numbers from the government record bus journeys when Yellow Buses collapsed during the summer after 120 years in the business.

Mr Wickham added: “Long before Covid-19 we made a concerted effort to encourage more people to choose sustainable transport. This was temporarily halted in 2020 and 2021.  

Bournemouth Echo:

“Whilst many people were asked to stay at home, we worked hard to make our buses safe for key workers carrying out vital roles within our community.  

“Now we are well on the road to recovery. Just last year, we introduced 10 new routes in-and-around Bournemouth and Poole. 

Read more: All routes served by Yellow Buses to stop from tonight

“The growing number of people travelling with us is very encouraging. However, we will continue to listen to our customers, with a view to making further enhancements - and are looking forward to welcoming new customers on-board over the coming months and years.” 

Transport Secretary Mark Harper said: “Travelling by bus remains the most popular option for commuters and families across the country, but the sector is still trying to recover after the end of the pandemic. 

“We’re providing £155 million to help passengers save money on fares, get more people on the bus and protect vital bus routes – helping with the cost of living and enabling people to get where they need to in an affordable and convenient way.”