Rt Hon Sir Julian Smith KCB CBE MP has welcomed the news that new bus services, funded by the Government’s Bus Service Improvement Plan (BSIP), will be launched across Skipton and surrounding communities, including Carleton-in-Craven and Embsay. The new services, which take effect from 30th November, will provide much-needed transport connections for residents and visitors alike.
The new services are:
Service 12 Skipton – Carleton: Introduction of Saturday service from 0905 to 1535 hours.
Service 13 Skipton – Greenacres (was service 73) - Introduction of Saturday service at same times as Monday to Friday buses.
Service 14 Skipton – Embsay: Introduction of additional Monday to Friday journeys departing Embsay at 08.10 and Skipton at 17.10 hours. And introduction of Saturday service hourly from 09.00 to 16.00 except 12.00 hours.
Service 16 Skipton – Horse Close: Introduction of a Saturday timetable similar to Monday to Friday except no 12.30 hours departure.
The new services are part of a £3.5 million cash injection secured by North Yorkshire Council last year. The funding aims to improve local bus networks, with the goal of making the services self-sustaining by the end of the funding period. However, it is important to note that these services could be at risk if they do not prove viable beyond then.
Commenting, Julian said: “This is fantastic news for Skipton and the surrounding communities, with new bus services that will support residents, commuters and visitors. The new Saturday services I hope will also give the High Street a boost at a critical time of year for retailers. The investment in local transport infrastructure is an endorsement of our community, and I am pleased to see this funding translate into real improvements on the ground."
The new services will not only enhance mobility but also complement ongoing efforts to upgrade public transport connectivity across Skipton. Plans for the Station Gateway development, including a new Gallows Bridge and surfaced footpaths connecting the railway station with Craven College, the leisure centre and Craven Cattle Mart alongside the canal, will further improve connectivity in the town.
In addition, the £2 bus fare cap, which has been in place throughout 2024, will remain in effect until the end of the year. Starting in January, the fare cap will rise to £3, so residents are encouraged to make the most of the remaining weeks at the current rate.
