New Southampton bus routes announced following First Bus decision to axe services

  • Meridian
141222 BLUE STAR 1 MERIDIAN
Bluestar has announced five brand new routes in Southampton from February 2023. Credit: ITV Meridian

A bus company in Southampton is adding additional services after another company decided to pull its services from the city.

First Bus, the owner of City Reds, announced last month it would stop running buses by February.

Bluestar has revealed it will now be adding new routes to help customers affected.

Andrew Wickham, Morebus managing director said: "We understand people’s concerns that our fellow operator’s decision to leave Southampton could leave them stranded in some parts of the city where we are not already operating services - but I’m pleased to say this will not be the case.

"Today, we are issuing details of our new routes, giving people the reassurance they need that their journeys will still be covered.

"From Sunday 19 February, we will be running five brand new routes, linking Lordshill, Townhill Park, Harefield, Hedge End, Thornhill and Hamble with the city centre. 

"These will run in addition to all our existing services - many of which already serve the areas soon to be vacated by First Bus. 

"We will be issuing detailed timetables shortly, giving people plenty of notice to plan their journeys."

Map of Bluestar routes in Southampton from February 2023 Credit: Bluestar

The company also said it will aim to recruit more than 100 new drivers, targeting First Bus staff who are concerned about their positions.

Bluestar said it will be increasing its pay rate from January and, for a limited time, will offer a £2,000 welcome bonus for experienced drivers who have a PCV licence and who agree to join in February before New Year's Day.

It's also confirmed full training will be provided for bus drivers who don't currently hold a license.

The following Bluestar services will be running from Sunday 19 February:

  • Bluestar 10 (currently City Red 9) city centre to Sholing

  • Bluestar 13 (currently City Red 13) city centre to Harefield

  • Bluestar 14 (currently City Red 8) city centre to Hedge End

  • Bluestar 15 (currently City Red 6) city centre to Hamble

  • Bluestar 19 (currently City Red 3) Lordshill to Thornhill - but re-routed via Maybush Corner instead of Warren Avenue. 

  • Bluestar 20 (currently City Red 7) city centre to Townhill Park

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