New bus service set to link northeast Shropshire with Princess Royal hospital
Shropshire Council is developing plans to improve bus services and facilities in northeast Shropshire– including a new service between Whitchurch, Market Drayton, the Princess Royal Hospital and Wellington bus station.
It’s hoped that the new service would begin in summer 2025, with more details to follow in the coming weeks.
The new service would be funded from the council’s recent allocation of Government bus service improvement funding for the year 2025/26.
Under the plans money would also be allocated to help Market Drayton Town Council improve the public toilet provision at Market Drayton Bus Station, and to provide a new shelter and possibly electronic real-time displays.
The bus service improvement funding will also be used to improve bus services across the county – including a new service between Broseley and Shrewsbury, and increasing the frequency of Shrewsbury park and ride – with more to be announced in the coming months.
Ian Nellins, Shropshire Council’s deputy Leader and Cabinet member with responsibility for public transport, said:
“Funding for public transport in rural areas is tight so I’m delighted that a service is being planned to connect Whitchurch, Market Drayton and Wellington. This is particularly important as the service would include a stop at the Princess Royal Hospital.
“For Market Drayton residents this service would also offer a connection to train services from either Whitchurch or Wellington, as well as bus connections into Telford town centre – and I know this is a service that Market Drayton residents want and need. Of course, it will also offer residents from Whitchurch and Wellington the opportunity to visit Market Drayton.
“The planned funding towards improvements at Market Drayton bus station is an outstanding opportunity for close co-operation with Market Drayton Town Council. It would improve the waiting conditions for passengers, improve the public toilets and provide a drivers’ rest room. This would be an important step as we look towards possible on-demand transport in the town, and coach-friendly status.”
