Traffic congestion and fewer passengers behind revised bus timetable

Maidstone: So, it looks like Nu Venture is shaking things up with their bus timetable. They’re making changes because fewer people are riding the buses, and traffic is getting worse.

The new schedule kicks in on January 20 and will impact routes in Maidstone, Malling, and Tonbridge. Sadly, the No 55 service is getting the axe, along with the 88 route. Not enough folks were using them, so they just can’t keep them running.

Other routes like the Nos 13 and 14 are also changing. They’re trying to avoid those pesky traffic jams on Horseshoes Lane by tweaking the route a bit. And if you’re a fan of the 78 bus, you’ll only have one return trip each day now. Bummer, right?

Nu Venture mentioned that road closures have been messing with the 78 service, which has made people less likely to hop on. Plus, parking issues in places like Hackney Road are making it tough for buses to get through safely.

Local councillor Paul Harper pointed out that the parking mess is partly due to more houses being turned into multiple occupations in the area. It’s a real headache for everyone involved.

In Tonbridge, the 211 route is also getting a makeover because of traffic problems. They’re reworking it to cover key spots like Brook Street and the local school. But don’t worry, some areas will actually see more bus services, like the 772, which is adding stops to help students get to Hadlow College.

And for those in Peters Village, the 29 service will now loop around the Ringlestone estate to help out residents who are losing the 55. It’s nice to see some effort to keep people connected.

Nu Venture is also making some minor tweaks to other services, but they’re warning that the 130 and 130A routes will face big disruptions this spring due to roadworks. If you want to check out the new timetable, it’s available online, and you can always call them if you have questions.