New cross‑border bus services to be launched in Northumberland and the Scottish Borders

The services, to be launched on Monday, March 2, which will be delivered jointly by Scottish Borders Council and Northumberland County Council.

It sees the two new services 34 and 34A (operated by Scottish Borders Council) replace the current 34 service (Duns – Coldstream) and 266 service (Wooler – Berwick) routes, bringing improved travel options for rural communities on both sides of the border.

The changes made to services will now mean that Service 34 will run between Duns and Kelso via Coldstream, with four journeys on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. Service 34A will run between Wooler and Kelso via Coldstream, with four journeys on Tuesdays and Thursdays increasing to six on Saturdays.

The joint initiative will enhance transport links for residents in Duns, Wooler, Coldstream, Kelso, and surrounding communities.

Both routes will connect with Borders Bus service 67 in Coldstream and Kelso, providing onward travel opportunities to Berwick and Galashiels, as well as access to Coldstream Health Centre.

Both councils have welcomed the development as a practical example of cross-border co-operation.

Cllr Richard Wearmouth, Northumberland County Council cabinet member with responsibility for public transport, said: “It's excellent news that we’re getting more improved bus services in our county, and a great example of cross-border working.

"We know how important reliable and regular bus services are, particularly in our more rural communities, and we're confident these new routes will be well received.”

Cllr Jenny Linehan, Scottish Borders Council’s executive member for environment, sustainability and transport, added: “We are delighted to be launching these new bus services in our communities.

"Not only will they enhance transport links for residents in this area but will also provide onward travel opportunities for those who live or work in the area, as well as those visiting.”

Liberal Democrat councillor Euan Robson, who represents Kelso and District on Scottish Borders Council, said: “I am particularly pleased that some of the smaller villages and communities will also benefit. I think that these extra services will be welcomed by residents south of the Tweed in places like Sprouston.”

Information on bus service timetables can be found on the Scottish Borders Council website.