Cumberland Council is delighted to announce that Route 217 (Frizington – Lamplugh – Dean – Cockermouth) will continue operating, until a pilot scheme is established.
Thanks to the £5 million in funding secured by Cumberland Council from the Department for Transport in November 2024, this route is now financially sustainable, ensuring long-term viability and reliable service for passengers. This investment is part of the broader £670 million Bus Service Improvement Plan (BSIP) designed to strengthen local transport networks throughout the UK.
This extension ensures that residents along Route 217 will continue to benefit from reliable and accessible public transport, improving connectivity across communities. Cumberland Council has already been working closely with a number of voluntary groups as well as Stagecoach to enhance local bus services, making them more sustainable and responsive to public needs.
After receiving the funding, the council conducted extensive public consultation, with over 3,000 residents sharing their views on the routes, frequencies, and service improvements that matter most to them. Now, the council is actively working with bus operators to bring these improvements to life where possible.
In addition to securing key routes like the 217, Cumberland Council has maintained its commitment to affordable travel. Single fares for bus journeys in the area will remain capped at just £3, ensuring that public transport remains an accessible and cost-effective option for all.
This funding represents a significant step towards creating a stronger and more efficient bus network, and Cumberland Council looks forward to continued collaboration with transport providers to deliver the best possible service for residents.
Cumberland Councillor Denise Rollo, Executive Member for Sustainable, Resilient and Connected Places, said:
“I am absolutely delighted that we can continue funding for this vital community service. We are thrilled to work closely with the 217 group and are in the process of developing a pilot scheme that will see this service increase in both frequency and the number of seats available. This demonstrates Cumberland Councils commitment to supporting it communities in providing accessible, affordable transport solutions”.