New Southend Bus Route Connects Key Locations

Southend-on-Sea City Council is set to launch a significant new public transport initiative, aiming to bridge crucial gaps in local connectivity. Following a competitive tender, Stephensons of Essex has been selected to operate the new North South Bus Link, designated as the 23A and 23B routes. This development, bolstered by funding from the Department for Transport's Bus Service Improvement Plan (BSIP) Bus Grant, promises to offer residents and commuters more direct and convenient travel options across the city.

The introduction of these new services addresses a clear local demand for improved access to key destinations, particularly for those residing in areas currently underserved by direct public transport. The council has placed a strong emphasis on creating a route that minimises the need for multiple bus changes within the city centre, a common frustration for many travellers. Furthermore, enhanced access to the business parks situated around Aviation Way has been a stated priority, aiming to support economic activity and provide viable commuting alternatives for employees.

Key Route Details and Schedule

The new 23A/23B bus service is scheduled to commence operations on Sunday, 31 August 2025. Initially, the service will run at intervals of up to 30 minutes, ensuring a reasonably frequent service for passengers. The route is designed to serve several important areas, including St Laurence, Eastwood Park, Belfairs, Blenheim Park, Leigh, and West Leigh. This broad coverage aims to benefit a significant portion of the Southend population.

A key feature of the weekday service is its alternating termination points. From Monday to Friday, the routes will diverge after departing from Leigh-on-Sea Railway Station. One service, the 23A, will terminate at London Southend Airport, while the 23B will extend its journey to the Airport Business Park. This dual-destination approach on weekdays is specifically designed to cater to the commuting needs of those travelling to and from educational institutions like Eastwood Academy, as well as workplaces located on Progress Road and Aviation Way, including the Airport Business Park itself.

On Saturdays and Sundays, the service will operate a slightly more streamlined route. Both the 23A and 23B will run exclusively between Leigh-on-Sea Railway Station and London Southend Airport. This weekend configuration focuses on providing convenient access to the airport and its immediate surroundings for leisure and travel purposes.

Connecting Communities and Supporting Sustainability

The overarching goal of the Leigh-on-Sea rail route enhancement is to create vital links between Leigh-on-Sea Rail Station, London Southend Airport, and the associated Business Park. By offering direct connections, the council anticipates a significant improvement in ease of travel across the city. This is particularly beneficial for residents in areas previously lacking direct bus services, empowering them with greater mobility and accessibility.

Cllr Paul Collins, the cabinet member for finance, assets, investments, and public transport, highlighted the council's commitment to meeting resident needs. "We know residents want easier, more reliable ways to get to work, school and other key destinations, and this new bus service will help deliver just that," he stated. He emphasised the direct nature of the route, connecting communities like Leigh-on-Sea with the Airport and local business parks without the hassle of changing buses. "It also supports our wider ambitions for a cleaner, greener Southend by giving people a real alternative to car travel. This is a positive step towards a more connected and sustainable city, made possible through government funding and local partnerships.""

Investment in Modern Fleet and Local Jobs

Stephensons of Essex, the chosen operator, has expressed enthusiasm for the partnership and the opportunity to provide this essential service. Dean Robbie, Managing Director of Stephensons, revealed plans for significant investment to support the new routes. "We are delighted to be chosen to work in partnership with Southend City Council to operate this much-needed new local service," he commented. "We will be investing in three brand new low-emission single deck buses at a cost of around £600,000, which will be especially branded for the 23A/B." This investment underscores a commitment to modern, environmentally friendly public transport. Furthermore, the new venture is expected to create approximately seven new jobs for local people, contributing to the local economy.

Infrastructure Enhancements

To facilitate the smooth operation and accessibility of the new bus service, new and relocated bus stops will be installed. These improvements will be visible along Progress Road and Whitehouse Road, ensuring that passengers have convenient and well-marked points for boarding and alighting the buses. These infrastructure upgrades are a crucial part of making the new service user-friendly and efficient.

Environmental and Congestion Benefits

Beyond improving passenger convenience, the introduction of the 23A/23B bus service is projected to yield significant environmental and traffic management benefits. By providing a reliable and direct public transport alternative, the service aims to encourage a modal shift away from private car usage. This is anticipated to lead to a reduction in the number of car journeys undertaken within Southend, consequently easing traffic congestion on local roads. Promoting cleaner, greener travel is a core objective, aligning with broader environmental goals and contributing to a healthier urban environment.

Funding and Future Sustainability

The new service will operate for an initial period of two years with government support through the BSIP Bus Grant. Crucially, there is an option to extend this support for a third year. The long-term ambition is for the route to become self-sustaining, demonstrating its value and demand within the community. The service will also be subject to the Traffic Commissioner's approval, a standard regulatory process to ensure safety and compliance.

Comparison with Existing Services

While specific details of competing services are not provided, the council's emphasis on a direct route without central London changes suggests a potential improvement over existing options for certain journeys. The new service directly addresses the feedback received from local residents, particularly the desire for a seamless travel experience to key employment and transport hubs. The focus on connecting Leigh-on-Sea Rail Station directly to the Airport and Business Park fills a perceived void in the current public transport network.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the new bus route number?

The new bus route is designated as the 23A/23B.

When does the new service start?

The service is scheduled to begin on Sunday, 31 August 2025.

Who is operating the new bus service?

Stephensons of Essex will be operating the service.

What areas does the new route cover?

The route will serve St Laurence, Eastwood Park, Belfairs, Blenheim Park, Leigh, and West Leigh, connecting Leigh-on-Sea Railway Station to London Southend Airport and the Airport Business Park.

Will there be new buses?

Yes, Stephensons will be investing in three brand new low-emission single deck buses.

What are the main benefits of this new service?

The service offers direct travel between key locations, reduces the need for bus changes, improves access to employment and transport hubs, and promotes greener travel, helping to ease congestion.

How is the new service funded?

The service is funded by the Department for Transport's Bus Service Improvement Plan (BSIP) Bus Grant.

Where can I find the final timetable?

Full details of the final timetable will be available soon on the Stephensons website and App.

This new bus service represents a significant step forward for public transportation in Southend-on-Sea, promising enhanced connectivity, improved accessibility, and a more sustainable travel future for its residents.