The residents of Wantage and Faringdon are set to welcome the return of vital bus services after an absence of several years. Pulhams Coaches will launch the new Route 68 bus service starting Monday, November 27, providing much-needed connectivity for communities in areas such as Longcot, Uffington, Childrey, and The Letcombes. However, the service will not operate on Sundays or public holidays.
The return of this service marks the culmination of a sustained effort to reverse cuts made in 2015 when services west of Wantage were discontinued due to reductions in the county council’s transport budget. The interruption sparked widespread dissatisfaction among residents and prompted action from local councillors. Their tenacity has finally led to the creation of a new transport link that will benefit the wider community.
Dr. Paul Barrow, Ridgeway’s district councillor, emphasized the significance of this milestone for local residents. He noted the vocal support from the community since the service disruption, which inspired Wantage Town Council’s deputy chair to form a dedicated committee to address the issue.
Early plans to use funding from property developers (via s106 agreements) to create a community bus service faced logistical challenges, particularly in securing sufficient volunteer drivers. Despite these setbacks, local representatives worked tirelessly to ensure progress by engaging with stakeholders at Oxfordshire County Council. Their perseverance bore fruit when the council’s cabinet revealed a £1.2m funding boost to improve public and community transport in rural areas.
This crucial funding opened the door for the service’s relaunch, which was subsequently put out to tender. Pulhams Coaches won the bid, finalizing plans to reintegrate Route 68 with the local transport network. The new service will run four times daily, reinstating an essential connection for the community.
Dr. Barrow, however, cautioned that funding for the service is only secured until March 2025. Parish councils are exploring ways to adjust the existing X35 service to offer additional options for the area, ensuring long-term sustainability. To safeguard the route’s future, robust use of the service is essential. Strong community support could pave the way for securing further funding to extend operations beyond its current timeline.
In this context, Andrew Gant, Oxfordshire County Council cabinet member for transport management, reaffirmed the council’s commitment to collaborating with service providers. The aim is to continue enhancing access to reliable public transportation for county residents.
Local businesses, organizations, and community groups looking to connect with residents near the new bus route are encouraged to create a free business profile in our [directory](https://wantage.com/submit-listing/). Community events related to the Route 68 launch can also be submitted [here](https://wantage.com/submit-listing/?listing_type=clubs-groups-and-events).
This development signifies not just the return of a bus route but a step forward in ensuring resilient connectivity for Wantage and surrounding areas. Residents and visitors alike can look forward to enjoying easier access to local amenities and beyond.
