Bus services in Dorset will be cut or reduced on some routes - but passengers will be pleased to hear a trial service will continue.

Changes have been announced as part of First Wessex' winter timetable which starts on Sunday, October 20.

The changes include the retiming of the morning service for Weymouth College students, with the first journey from Beaminster timed to help students connect at Bridport.

As previously reported, the trial diversion of the X51 to serve Martinstown and Winterbourne Steepleton will continue during the winter season.

Passenger numbers will continue to be reviewed to assess the route’s long-term viability.

The X53 route which is currently running on diversion while works take place at Goose Hill in Portesham, will continue with the temporary route and shuttle service T53 until November 8.

Alongside this are the usual reduction of some services for the winter season, in particular on the Jurassic Coaster services (X51, X53, X54).

Other changes include:

  • Route 1 – Journey times revised to account for winter season traffic levels. No changes to frequency.
  • Route 2 – Frequency reduced to every 20 mins Monday to Saturday. A half hourly service continues on Sundays with revised journey times.
  • Route 4 – Frequency reduced to every 40 mins daily
  • Route 8 – Sunday service reduced to operate 10am to 5pm only and journey times revised throughout to account for winter season traffic levels.
  • Route 10 – Frequency restored to every 15 minutes Monday to Friday, every 20 mins Saturday and every 30 mins Sunday with journey times revised throughout to account for winter season traffic levels.
  • Route 10 – Frequency restored to every 15 minutes Monday to Friday, every 20 mins Saturday and every 30 mins Sunday with journey times revised throughout to account for winter season traffic levels.
  • Route X51 – Sunday service withdrawn for winter season and journey times revised throughout to account for winter season traffic levels. In partnership with Dorset County Council, route X51 will continue to serve Martinstown and Winterbourne Steepleton during the winter season.
  • Route CR6 – The first journey from Beaminster will now depart at 7.04am to ensure a connection at Bridport for students travelling to Weymouth College.

Terrance James, Head of Network for First Wessex, said: “Our next round of network changes will be in May next year and we’re keen to hear from local people on what else they’d like to see from our services.”