Bus operators now exploring how to improve coastal service from King’s Lynn and north Norfolk coast
Coasthopper bus when the service was first launched in 2009. PHOTO: IAN BURT COPY:Annabelle Dickson FOR:EDP News EDP pics © 2009 (01603)772434 - Credit: IAN BURT
Bus operators that operate a popular service to and around the Norfolk coast have agreed to look into how the service can be improved following a public meeting last night in Thornham, near Hunstanton.
Timetables that align with train services, the railway station becoming a permanent stop on bus routes and a more frequent direct bus service between King's Lynn and Hunstanton were requested at a public meeting.
And representatives from the bus companies that operate the service – Stagecoach and West Norfolk-based Lynx – agreed to look into how the current service could be improved to meet the needs of passengers.
Stephanie Mocatta, chair of Thornham Parish Council, said: 'We're very pleased that Stagecoach and Lynx have turned up to meet those who regularly use their service.
'They have listened to what people have had to say about the changes to the bus service and will be reporting back to us in three weeks time.'
She added: 'As a parish council, we also want to know what we can do to help support both companies and promote the service.'
It was also agreed all parties will work with the relevant tourism and wildlilfe bodies so that visitors to the stunning coastline can particularly enjoy the 'area of outstanding natural beauty' without their car.
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At least 60 people attended last night's meeting at Thornham Village Hall, in High Street to air their concerns about changes introduced to the Coasthopper 18 months ago and other coastal bus services.
A number of services run between King's Lynn and Hunstanton, and then along the coast to Wells-Next-the-Sea and Cromer.
Andy Campbell, from Stagecoach, said: 'People are looking for a more direct service but it's getting that balance right between providing a direct service and a number of villages then having a less frequent service.'
John Dobson, a Norfolk County Councillor, added: 'Eighteen months ago it was a working service. It was an environmentally friendly transport system integrated within the area and the trains – it was a tragedy we have lost it.'
Sarah Reed, who lives in Burnham Market, regularly uses the coastal bus route for work commitments in London.
She said: 'I want to use the bus service but the route between Hunstanton and King's Lynn stops at every village on the way – it takes too long.'
Do you think the bus services along the coast need to improve? Email louise.hepburn@archant.co.uk
