Stagecoach to take over Swanbrook's 853 coach

[wirewiper]

Swanbrook of Cheltenham have been operating the 853 coach service between Gloucester, Cheltenham and Oxford for over 30 years. The service operates on a limited-stop basis directly along the A40 and there is no need to pre-book as tickets can be purchased on board. 

The service was temporarily suspended from 26th April due to covid-19. It will resume again on Monday 13th July, under Swanbrook operation.

From Monday 27th July Stagecoach West has registered to operate the service, and will take over from Swanbrook. The 853 is already a Megabus "partner route" and tickets can be purchased via the Megabus website. 


Source: Oxford Chiltern Bus Page, 3rd July 2020 www.oxford-chiltern-bus-page.co.uk/ 

[MetrolineGA1511]

Thank you for this update. Ironically the service had been suspended with Swanbrook but is resuming on July 13th.

I hope that Stagecoach Explorers can be used on route 853, as they are the main operator in Cheltenham and a significant player in Oxford too.

[higthomas]

Interesting. but I think it will probably be a good thing. Hopefully there will be more integration, with Stagecoach, e.g. more buses to Burford direct from Oxford (i.e. combine the 853 with the S2 to create a more sensible timetable.