Open-top buses could be axed in Cornwall amid ongoing plans to "assess" all bus services by First Bus. Two beloved scenic routes are among the buses at risk of change, it has been suggested.
The current routes include the Land's End Coaster which showcases rugged coastlines, mining heritage sites, harbour towns and Land's End itself as well as the Atlantic Coaster which takes a scenic trip between Newquay and Padstow, hopping off at pretty villages, cliffs and secret coves inbetween.
A source close to the negotiations says that the routes are likely to continue but will instead use regular, closed-top buses as opposed to the open toppers. First Bus, however, says nothing is finalised as of yet.
The plans, if they go ahead, have been called "short-sighted" and "profit-driven". One said: "An open topper is an experience, not just a bus ride." The Atlantic Coaster route is described as 'one of the UK's most spectacular open top bus rides'.
While the source claims it was announced internally that all open-top vehicles would be withdrawn for the next season, First Bus said in a statement that a review is ongoing and plans are still being finalised. It said it will announce the plans in due course.
A First Bus spokesperson said: "As part of our ongoing review for April’s network changes, in partnership with Cornwall Council, we are assessing the provision of all bus services across our network, as well as the types of buses used on each route. These plans are still being finalised and agreed with the Council, and we will announce them in due course.”
⚠️ Want the latest Cornwall breaking news and top stories first? Click here to join CornwallLive on WhatsApp and we'll send breaking news and top stories directly to your phone. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don’t like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you’re curious, you can read our Privacy Notice ⚠️
