New Bus Routes Enhance Travel Between Bury St Edmunds and Sudbury

Starting from Sunday, May 26th, travelers can now enjoy extended bus services between Bury St Edmunds, Lavenham, and Sudbury Town Centre. This new schedule includes evening and Sunday routes, making travel more accessible and convenient for both residents and visitors.

The updated route 753 will connect Bury St Edmunds with key locations including West Suffolk Hospital, Long Melford, Acton, Great Waldingfield, Lavenham, Cross Green, Stanningfield, Sicklemere, and Sudbury Bus Station. This service marks a significant change as there hasn't been a Sunday bus connecting these villages with Bury St Edmunds for many years.

Hedingham and Chambers, who operate the route, have secured funding through the Bus Service Improvement Plan 2, allocated to Suffolk County Council by the UK Government. This enhancement will make commuting for work, leisure travel, and day trips easier and more enjoyable.

The popular £2 single fare programme, providing excellent value for money, will be available on this service until the end of 2024. The last bus will now depart from Bury St Edmunds Bus Station at 22.30, arriving in Sudbury Bus Station at 23.38 from Monday to Saturday. On Sundays, buses will run from 09.45 until the last service at 17.30.

Cllr Indy Wijenayaka, Cabinet Member for Growth at West Suffolk Council, shared his excitement about the expanded service. He emphasized that the new schedule will support local economies by encouraging sustainable travel, increasing footfall to restaurants, shops, and amenities, and enhancing the night-time economy. He looks forward to further collaborations with Suffolk County Council to expand bus services across the district.

Gavin Smith, Managing Director for Go East Anglia, praised the cooperative efforts between local parishes and the council. He highlighted the benefits of the £2 fare scheme and stressed the importance of building a strong passenger base to ensure the long-term success of these service improvements.

For travelers, this new bus service opens up a range of exciting possibilities. With more frequent and convenient connections, visitors can explore the charming villages along the route, each offering unique attractions, historical sites, and local culture. Whether it's a day out in the picturesque village of Lavenham, known for its medieval architecture, or a visit to the bustling market town of Sudbury, travelers now have greater flexibility to plan their trips. Additionally, the extended evening services make it easier to enjoy nightlife and events in Bury St Edmunds, from dining at local restaurants to attending performances at The Apex.This new bus service offers a significant boost to travel options, providing greater flexibility and ease for both residents and visitors, and supporting the growth and sustainability of the local communities.