Connecting Ireland Project Updates

TranslatorPS

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/120620246#Comment_120620246

True re: your last sentence, it was merely the logistics planner in me that was trying to come up with a viable excuse that held true to the announcement xD

_Puma_

It's a good change. I can't see many using it Headford to Tuam at 7am. On the flip getting into Galway before 9am makes it a viable commuter option. First Headford to Tuam is now 10:00am.

The times leaving Galway have been pushed out a bit but still viable for commuters I think.

LXFlyer

The next two routes are being launched on Monday next, 12th June, both of which introduce regular public transport to areas that have not had them before now.

Route 232: Allihies - Bantry - Kilcrohane

https://www.transportforireland.ie/news/tfi-local-link-cork-launches-new-bus-service-connecting-allihies-and-kilcrohane/

TFI Local Link Cork launches new bus service connecting Allihies and Kilcrohane

2ND JUNE 2023

TFI Local Link Cork is launching a new bus route which will improve connectivity between Allihies and Kilcrohane from Monday 12th of June.

This new route is part of the Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Plan which is a major national public transport initiative developed and funded by the National Transport Authority (NTA) as part of the Transport for Ireland (TFI) Network.

Route 232 will operate 4 daily return services, 7 days a week, creating a new connection between Kilcrohane, Allihies and Bantry and will offer enhanced connectivity to villages and areas such as Durrus, Bantry, Glengarriff, Adrigole, Ahakista, Ballylickey, Castletownbere and Dursey Sound.

The route will offer a peak-time service for commuters, improved connectivity to regional bus services in Bantry and a convenient connection to Dursey Island and Castletownbere with connections to Bere Island Ferry and the Dursey Island Cable Car.

Speaking ahead of the launch, TFI Local Link Cork Manager David O’Brien said: “This new route will provide people living locally with access to frequent reliable bus services and onward connections on a daily basis. It will mean a significant improvement in the quality of life for people living in these areas. People can now access a wide range of public and social services, training courses, colleges, hospital appointments, banks and lots of other services and amenities along with onward train and bus connections”.

The timetable is here: https://www.transportforireland.ie/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/TFI-Local-Link-Cork-Route-232-Allihies-to-Kilcrohane-June-2023.pdf

Route 356 - Dungarvan-Clonmel

https://www.transportforireland.ie/news/tfi-local-link-waterford-launches-new-bus-service-connecting-dungarvan-and-clonmel/

TFI Local Link Waterford launches new bus service connecting Dungarvan and Clonmel

2ND JUNE 2023

TFI Local Link Waterford is launching a new bus service improving connectivity between Dungarvan, Co. Waterford and Clonmel, Co. Tipperary from Monday 12th June.

This new route is part of the Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Plan which is a major national public transport initiative developed and funded by the National Transport Authority (NTA) as part of the Transport for Ireland (TFI) Network.

Route 356 will operate 5 daily return services 7 days a week creating a brand new connection from Dungarvan in Co. Waterford to South Tipperary Hospital. The route from Dungarvan to Clonmel will offer enhanced connectivity to villages and areas such as Ballinroad, Touraneena and Ballymacarbry.

This new bus service will also provide increased frequency between Dungarvan town and Ballinroad, improved connectivity to rail services in Clonmel and a peak-time service for commuters.

Speaking ahead of the launch, TFI Local Link Waterford Manager, James O’Donoghue said “We are delighted that the NTA continues to support the ongoing development of local bus services under the Connecting Ireland Plan and are confident that the Dungarvan to Clonmel service will be well supported by the local communities en route. The expansion of public transport services across County Waterford will open up opportunities not only for local residents to make connections for employment, health, education and recreational opportunities, but also allow visitors to access the many areas of historic interest and natural beauty across the County. 

The timetable is designed to allow people travelling from Dungarvan and other locations to get to Clonmel before 9am, with 5 return services Monday to Sunday, the first service to Clonmel will leave Ballinroad at 7.30am and the last return service in the evening will leave Clonmel at 9pm, creating a vital link between the two towns. The route will also provide a service between Ballinroad and Dungarvan. We believe that there is a significant demand for a public bus link from Ballinroad and it will now have 10 services Monday to Saturday and 5 on Sundays to Dungarvan.”

The timetable for this route is here: https://www.transportforireland.ie/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/TFI-Local-Link-Waterford-356-Dungarvan-Clonmel-June2023.pdf

LXFlyer

Bus Éireann route 270 between Killarney and Kenmare gets relaunched on Sunday 25th June, with a massive increase in frequency from three journeys each way to 11 in one direction and 12 in the other.

The second change, which is huge, is that five of those journeys will extend to operate from Killarney to Skibbereen and back, via Kenmare, Glengarriff, Ballydehob and Bantry, with an additional round trip between Bantry and Skibbereen.

https://www.transportforireland.ie/news/bus-eireann-announces-improved-services-and-timetables-on-route-270-killarney-to-skibbereen/

Bus Éireann announces improved services and timetables on Route 270, Killarney to Skibbereen

21ST JUNE 2023

New service provides connection between Kerry and West Cork all year round

Bus Éireann enhanced service and timetable this Sunday

Bus Éireann, Ireland’s national bus company, is pleased to announce significantly enhanced services and timetable to Route 270, Killarney to Skibbereen which will come into effect this Sunday, 25 June.

Route 270, Killarney to Skibbereen

Funded by the Department of Transport through the National Transport Authority as part of the Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Plan, the enhanced Route 270 will provide five daily services connecting Killarney with Skibbereen all year round. The updated service will also a feature an enhanced weekly timetable with earlier daily departures from Kenmare to Killarney at 07:00 and later departures at 21:40 from Killarney to Skibbereen.

Bus Éireann Route 270 will serve Killarney, Glenflesk, Loo Bridge, Morleys Bridge, Kilgarvan, Kenmare, Glengarriff, Snave Bridge, Eagle Point, Ballylickey, Bantry, Durras Cross, Ballydehob Bridge, Aghadown, Church Cross and Skibbereen.

West Cork passengers offered a connection with MTU Tralee as well as rail services in Killarney

The improved service will also offer passengers from West Cork a connection with MTU Tralee as well as rail services in Killarney.

“Bus Éireann is delighted to introduce these new and improved services between Killarney and Skibbereen, linking Kerry and West Cork all year round, while significantly increasing the daily services,” said Aled Williams, Bus Éireann, Senior Operations Manager, South. “Thanks to the National Transport Authority, through the Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Plan we have added over 2 million kilometres to our network and have created over 62 new jobs. Demand for our services in the South is higher now than pre-pandemic, passenger numbers nationally are 20-30% higher than they were in 2019, this enhanced service will enable us to connect our growing number of customers with who and what matters to them.”

“Fáilte Ireland welcomes the launch of the new and improved service of Route 270 connecting West Cork and Kerry all year round,” said Josephine O’Driscoll, Wild Atlantic Way Manager, Failte Ireland. “Improving connectivity and car free travel routes between the two regions is key to encouraging new demographics of visitors as well as locals to explore the very best that Ireland has to offer.”

Updated service details and timetables are available at buseireann.ie.

brianc89

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/120747489#Comment_120747489

Fantastic to see a proper regular local link route. These can actually serve as replacement for cars. Although I haven't checked the times to see if train connections work.... (they totally messed this up on another route, where buses miss trains by a few minutes or leave you at the station an hour before a train).

The timetable is really confusing. Is it one or two separate routes?

mpdf (1).pdf

TranslatorPS

It's a Killarney/Skibereen service with Killarney/Kenmare short trips under the same number. What's confusing you is the (automatically generated by the website nowadays) PDF splitting the table into two pieces in the most unfortunate of places.

Compare here >> https://bustimes.org/services/270-sneem-kenmare-killarney?date=2023-06-26

munchkin_utd

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/120747686#Comment_120747686

The first arrival into Killarney from Kenmare is 7.41am with the Dublin train at 7.45!!!!

The first arrival from Skib has an hour to spare for the train but the next one lands at 11.39 and the train is at 11.41. Similarly the 17.39 arrival has a train at 17.41 to Dublin.

With a 10 minute tweak there you'd have much better connections.

And on the matter of timetables, in Germany and Alscace (maybe other places too) its standard that your local bus timetables will have the train departure times, because we no longer live in the 1800s where people rarely venture beyond their local village. When people take a local bus its often to get much further away on a long distance service. For a tourist in Kenmare or Skibereen it would be to get to Dublin - and in the majority of cases they would be looking to take the train.

For example here at Tegernsee near Munich, where you can see that the timetable clearly shows when trains arrive and depart to farther afield at the relevant places on the bus route. https://www.fewo-tegernsee.de/wp-content/uploads/bus-fahrplan-ringlinie-9559.pdf

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/120748079#Comment_120748079

Another way to look at it, by the bus arriving before the train, its of no use to anyone getting off the train who wants to use it

Ideally, you'd want relative high frequency for both services so they compliment each other. I'm talking at least hourly for both, where the arrivals are staggered so a bus will arrive 30 mins before the next train and the train arrives 30 mins before the next bus....if that makes sense. Obviously a higher frequency would be more useful

I don't know how feasible that is for such a route though

brianc89

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/120748098#Comment_120748098

Yes it's definitely tricky. However, the extremely short time <5minutes for a train connection shows that NTA have not properly considered connected, despite what they say and despite the project being called "Connecting Ireland".

It's a start though.

2 updates

2 bus routes serving Waterford - Tramore get increased services

https://www.nationaltransport.ie/news/nta-and-bus-eireann-announce-investment-in-360-and-360a-bus-services-between-waterford-and-tramore/

Under the proposals, Bus Éireann Route 360 will provide buses between Tramore and Waterford Bus Station every 20 minutes during the day – an increased frequency of 50% on current services. Buses on this route will operate every 30 minutes in the evening, doubling today’s evening service. Route 360 services will start earlier in the morning, offering passengers the choice to travel onward from Waterford to Dublin.

Route 360A will continue to operate the same number of services, with some minor timetable adjustments.

The combination of Route 360 and 360A will result in buses operating every 15 minutes from Tramore to Waterford during the morning peak, and every 15 to 20 minutes from Waterford to Tramore in the evening peak period.

The route operated by both the 360 and 360A will be amended in Tramore to provide a useful local bus service to and from the centre of the town for the majority of residents.

Next up, Local Link route 281 launched

https://www.nationaltransport.ie/news/tfi-local-link-kerry-launches-new-bus-service-connecting-waterville-and-kenmare/

Route 281 will operate four return trips Monday to Sunday. The route will cover the Iveragh Peninsula and will facilitate onward travel at Kenmare for connections to Killarney, Tralee, Bantry and Skibbereen. The route will also provide a peak-time service for commuters and improved connectivity to regional bus services and the wider TFI network.

The route from Waterville to Kenmare will offer enhanced connectivity to villages and areas such as Sneem, Caherdaniel, Castlecove and Tahilla.

Route 281 is the first of three routes, in a planned phased roll out this summer of new and enhanced TFI Local Link bus services in Co. Kerry, which when used together, will allow passengers to travel around the Ring of Kerry, all year round.

LXFlyer

Two more updates:

1) Route 387 Wexford-Rosslare

TFI Local Link Wexford to increase frequency of bus services from Wexford to Rosslare Europort

3RD JULY 2023

TFI Local Link Wexford is improving bus services to frequently connect Wexford Town with Rosslare Europort, the gateway to Europe and a key transport hub for the South East, from Wednesday 12th July 2023.

This enhancement is part of the Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Plan which is a major national public transport initiative developed and funded by the National Transport Authority (NTA) as part of the Transport for Ireland (TFI) Network.

Route 387 will now operate 15 daily return services, seven days a week. The improvements will mean a morning and late evening bus service and a peak-time service for commuters.

Better connectivity to and from Wexford Town and Rosslare

It will provide better connectivity to and from Wexford Town and Rosslare for onward travel; connecting with sailings at Rosslare Europort and in Wexford town connecting with public transport services to New Ross, Waterford, Gorey and Dublin by bus and rail. The service will also provide improved connectivity to Wexford General Hospital and the SETU Campus Wexford.

Rosslare Strand & Rosslare Europort

The route, which takes in Rosslare Strand, will allow locals and visitors to experience the fantastic coastal beaches, explore Co. Wexford’s many walks, hikes, historical sites and family friendly attractions. The route will also connect with Rosslare Europort, one of Ireland’s leading ports and a gateway to Europe for the freight and tourist industries.

Speaking ahead of the launch, TFI Local Link Wexford, General Manager Mary B O’Leary said: “Route 387 Wexford to Rosslare is a very busy route and we are delighted to announce the service frequency enhancements that will better serve the Wexford and Rosslare areas providing vital connections for education, employment, leisure and onward travel.”

The timetable is here: https://www.transportforireland.ie/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/TFI-Local-Link-Wexford-Route-387-Wexford-to-Rosslare-NEW.pdf

LXFlyer

2) Route 280 - Killarney-Killorglin-Waterville

TFI Local Link Kerry launches new bus service connecting Waterville and Killarney

7TH JULY 2023

TFI Local Link Kerry connecting Waterville and Killarney

TFI Local Link Kerry is launching a new bus route, which will improve connectivity between Waterville and Killarney, from Monday 17th of July 2023.

This new route is part of the Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Plan which is a major national public transport initiative developed and funded by the National Transport Authority (NTA) as part of the Transport for Ireland (TFI) Network.

Route 280

Route 280 will operate seven daily return services Monday to Sunday between Waterville and Killorglin, which includes three daily return trips between Waterville and Killarney. The new route will provide a peak-time service for commuters as well as improved connectivity to rail services in Killarney and regional bus services in Kilorglin.

The route from Waterville to Killarney will offer enhanced connectivity to villages and areas such as Cahersiveen, Kells, Glenbeigh, Kilorglin and Beaufort.

Route 280, is part of a planned phased roll out this summer of new and enhanced TFI Local Link bus services in Co. Kerry, which when used together, will allow passengers to connect in Waterville to travel around the Iveragh Peninsula, all year round.

Speaking ahead of the launch, TFI Local Link Kerry, General Manager, Alan O’Connell said: “We are delighted to launch our service expansion along the Iveragh Peninsula. We are confident this will be transformative for locals living along the route. This route replaces the existing Route 285 service that has operated in the area.

“The new timetable has been designed to allow passengers to travel from Waterville, Cahersiveen & Glenbeigh and to arrive into Killorglin by 8am facilitating transfer to Route 279 for onward travel to Tralee or Killarney. There will also be a bus from Killarney arriving in Killorglin before 9am with timed connections in Waterville with the recently launched Route 281 from Waterville to Kenmare.

“This new service will provide new opportunities for communities across the Iveragh Peninsula and will enable greater connectivity for employment, recreation, education and health purposes.”

For more route and timetable information, visit www.locallinkkerry.ie

LXFlyer

Two more routes announced today:

First up another service in Kerry, linking Tarbert (including the Killimer Ferry) with Tralee:

https://www.transportforireland.ie/news/tfi-local-link-kerry-launches-new-bus-service-connecting-tarbert-and-tralee/

TFI Local Link Kerry launches new bus service connecting Tarbert and Tralee

14TH JULY 2023

TFI Local Link Kerry is launching a new bus service, which will improve connectivity between Tarbert and Tralee, from Monday 24th of July 2023.

This new route is part of the Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Plan which is a major national public transport initiative developed and funded by the National Transport Authority (NTA) as part of the Transport for Ireland (TFI) Network.

Route 274 will operate three daily return trips, seven days a week creating a new connection from Tarbert to Tralee via Ballyheigue and Ardfert. The new route will provide improved connectivity to the MTU North and South Campuses and all three Kerry College Campuses, as well as providing a peak-time service for commuters and improved connectivity to regional bus and rail services in Tralee.

Enhanced connectivity to Ballylongford, Causeway, Ballyheigue, Ardfert, Ballybunion, Asdee and Ballyduff

The route will offer enhanced connectivity to villages and areas such as Ballylongford, Causeway, Ballyheigue, Ardfert, Ballybunion, Asdee and Ballyduff.

Speaking ahead of the launch TFI Local Link Kerry General Manager Alan O’Connell said: “We are delighted to launch Route 274 and increase our service in North Kerry. We are confident this service will be transformative for locals living along the route, as well as visitors enjoying all the hospitality that North Kerry has to offer.

“This new timetable has been designed to facilitate passengers travelling between towns and villages along the Wild Atlantic Way as well as connections into and out of Tralee, which enables greater connectivity and creates access for employment, education, training, recreation, social and health purposes.

We would encourage passengers to make the most of our public transport system as it’s not only an environmentally friendly option but also an inclusive and cheaper way to travel.

TFI Local Link Kerry is continuing to work with the NTA in designing new bus routes under the Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Plan. It is a very positive time to be involved in public transport.”

For route and timetable information, visit www.locallinkkerry.ie

To learn more about the five year Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Plan visit: www.nationaltransport.ie/connecting-ireland/

The timetable is here: https://www.locallinkkerry.ie/tarbert/

LXFlyer

The second links Dundalk with Shercock via Carrickmacross and Inniskeen.

https://www.transportforireland.ie/news/tfi-local-link-cavan-monaghan-launches-new-bus-service-connecting-shercock-to-dundalk/

TFI Local Link Cavan Monaghan launches new bus service connecting Shercock to Dundalk

14TH JULY 2023

TFI Local Link Cavan Monaghan

TFI Local Link Cavan Monaghan is launching a new bus service, which will improve connectivity, between Shercock and Dundalk from Monday 24th of July 2023.

It is part of the Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Plan, which is a major national public transport initiative developed and funded by the National Transport Authority (NTA) as part of the Transport for Ireland (TFI) Network.

Route 171

Route 171, is the first of two routes, in a planned phased roll out of new TFI Local Link and Bus Éireann bus services in Cavan, Monaghan and Louth which will offer a consistent route, provide a higher combined frequency of bus services, quicker journey times from Dundalk to Carrickmacross, later journey times and a new Sunday service.

The existing Bus Eireann 166 service will be replaced by the new Local Link 171 service

The existing Bus Eireann 166 service will be replaced by the new Local Link 171 service and new regional Bus Eireann 170 service.

Route 171 will operate between Shercock and Dundalk, via Carrickmacross and Inishkeen. Route 170 will operate between Dundalk and Cavan, via Carrickmacross, Kingscourt and Bailieborough but will not operate via Inishkeen or Shercock. As a result of the proposed changes, there will be more frequent services operating between Carrickmacross and Dundalk.

The new route 170 service will be launched later in the autumn. The existing Bus Eireann 166 service will not be withdrawn until the new route 170 service is operational. Following the withdrawal of the existing 166 route, there will be no direct bus services between Shercock and Cavan on Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Passengers travelling between Shercock and Cavan will have to transfer between route 171 and route 170 at Carrickmacross.

Route 171 will operate five return services Monday to Saturday and four return services on Sundays and Bank Holidays between Dundalk and Shercock via Inishkeen and Carrickmacross. The route will be serviced by two fully accessible electric vehicles, which will deliver a cleaner, quieter and more comfortable journey for passengers.

It will provide people from those areas with sustainable public transport options to access employment, education, retail, social services and onward travel connections from Dundalk Train and Bus Stations.

Speaking ahead of the launch TFI Local Link Cavan Monaghan Manager Padraic Smyth said: “We are very excited about the introduction of this service, not only for what it brings to the communities, but it will be the first service in Cavan Monaghan to be operated using electric vehicles.

“In partnership with the NTA, we support the Government’s Sustainable Mobility Policy and believe this new service and enhancements to existing services in Monaghan complement this policy and it will contribute to reducing Co2 emissions in the transport sector. This development also aligns with the local Active Travel Programme which provides alternative modes of transport for people in rural villages in Monaghan.”

TFI Local Link Cavan Monaghan is delighted to have been the first to offer passengers, Leap and TFI Go App facilities on Rural Regular Services in 2022, and passengers on the new 171 service can also avail of these ticket options, which are now more affordable than ever, due to the reductions implemented by Government in April of this year.

For route and timetable information, 047 51840 or visit www.locallinkcm.ie

To learn more about the five year Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Plan visit: www.nationaltransport.ie/connecting-ireland/

The timetable for route 171 is here: https://www.locallinkcm.ie/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/171-TT-Web-July23.pdf

brianc89

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/120850905#Comment_120850905

It's interesting. In both directions, all buses are scheduled to arrive at Casement train station at the same time, even though it's not the first or last stop.

An attempt to properly align with trains? It still doesn't line up well with train times, but this is more down to the infrequency of trains to / from Tralee.

LXFlyer

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/120853830#Comment_120853830

I would think that is because it runs in a one way loop in Tralee, and keeps going.

It's a one bus operation.

brianc89

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/120853927#Comment_120853927

Ah that makes sense. So, one bus driver doing a 3hr 50min non stop return route?

LXFlyer

Next up is new route 426 linking Longford and Roscommon from 31 July.

https://www.transportforireland.ie/news/tfi-local-link-longford-westmeath-roscommon-launches-new-bus-service-between-longford-and-roscommon/

TFI Local Link Longford Westmeath Roscommon launches new bus service between Longford and Roscommon

21ST JULY 2023

TFI Local Link Longford Westmeath Roscommon is launching a new bus route, which will improve connectivity between Longford and Roscommon, from Monday 31st of July 2023.

This new route is part of the Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Plan which is a major national public transport initiative developed and funded by the National Transport Authority (NTA) as part of the Transport for Ireland (TFI) Network.

Route 426 will operate seven return trips Monday to Thursday, eight return trips on Friday and Saturday and four return trips on Sunday. The route will connect villages and areas such as Killashee, Clonfore Cross, Lansborough, Ballyleague, Cloonladdra, Moneen, Beechwood and Emoe Cross.

The new route will offer a peak-time service for commuters as well as late evening services. The route will also provide improved connectivity to regional bus services and the wider TFI Network with connections at Longford Irish Rail station and Roscommon to facilitate onward travel to Dublin, Sligo and Galway. Route 426 is the first of two new rural regular routes which the NTA and TFI Local Link Longford Westmeath Roscommon plan to launch over the coming months.

Speaking ahead of the launch, TFI Local Link Longford Westmeath Roscommon General Manager, Damien O’Neill said: “We are delighted to launch this important link between the towns of Longford and Roscommon. This route is a priority for our area and it will play an important part in developing reliable connections for our passengers. We all know the importance of using sustainable modes of public transport from an environmental point of view. It is also vital that passengers have a frequent bus service which they can rely on to travel to work, college, training, sightseeing, or meeting family and friends.

“In partnership with the NTA we are working to deliver affordable, accessible appropriate public transport for our area. The NTA is committed to the growth and development of local bus services, which in this case, is a brand-new high frequency service linking two key rural towns that will provide opportunities for people to get where they need to go.”

For route and timetable information, visit locallinklwr.ie

To learn more about the five-year Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Plan visit: www.nationaltransport.ie/connecting-ireland/

The timetable is here: https://www.transportforireland.ie/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/TFI-LL-LWR-R426-WEB2-July-2023.pdf

LXFlyer

Also, Bus Éireann route 163 has now ceased operating, with Local Link route 188 now established as the link between Drogheda and Brú na Bóinne.

brianc89

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/120885403#Comment_120885403

Unbelievable.

Another route starting in a train station that has failed to consider the arrival and departure of actual trains at that station (between Dublin, the capital city, and Sligo).

A few connections are less than 20minutes, however a lot more miss a connection by less than 20minutes, some less than 5.

They even go so far as to say it's enabling students to go to college. Where? University of Longford?

• on Sunday, the only bus that connects with a train will get you to Dublin at 10.20pm. An earlier bus arrives into Longford train station 6minutes after a train departs, which could have gotten you to Dublin at 6.20pm

• on Friday, you would need to leave Dublin Connolly at 5.10pm to catch the 19.15 bus from Longford, or leave Dublin Connolly at 19.15 to catch the Friday only bus from Longford at 9.45pm. However both of these leave you waiting in Longford train station for 15-20minutes.... "Think I'll just call mammy thanks"

purplepanda

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/120819910#Comment_120819910

Two early bus services in time for the early morning ferry sailing to Fishguard plus a frequent daily service until midnight.

NOTICE : No ferry services Rosslare Europort to Fishguard until Tuesday 1st August. 

08.15 morning service.

19.30 evening. No train services beyond Swansea. Check for latest rail & coach times. https://www.nationalrail.co.uk  https://www.traveline.info

Credit to all involved however the TFI Journey planner doesn't find most of the Bus 387 15 returns a day service, apart from a couple of walk & catch the train BE bus options.

Is there any other option that covers all transport modes including Local Link bus services? If you arrive at, for example, Cork Airport the transport planner really should be able to give you journey options all the way, including local Bus services, plus private Bus operated services.

LXFlyer

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/120892469#Comment_120892469

It should be in the TFI journey planner - someone in the NTA has messed up. Looking back, I see that the three new Local Link Kerry services (274, 280 and 281) are missing from it too which is not good.

Incidentally for some reason, Google maps have not been updated for any Irish bus timetable & route changes for any operator going back for several months now (since April or so). Use with caution as it now has out of date information.

A final word on the Rosslare to Fishguard ferry is that since Stena unilaterally changed the ferry timetable a few weeks ago, the evening sailing from Rosslare no longer has any rail connection at Fishguard. That ferry timetable change has completely mucked up the rail connections at Rosslare as well.

LXFlyer

Next up is another Wexford service, with a much enhanced route 388 timetable and an extended route to and from Duncormick.

https://www.transportforireland.ie/news/tfi-local-link-wexford-improves-bus-services-from-wexford-to-duncormick/

TFI Local Link Wexford improves bus services from Wexford to Duncormick

31ST JULY 2023

TFI Local Link Wexford is enhancing bus services from Wexford Town to Duncormick from Monday the 7th of August.

This enhancement is part of the Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Plan which is a major national public transport initiative developed and funded by the National Transport Authority (NTA) as part of the Transport for Ireland (TFI) Network.

Route 388 will now operate ten return services a day, seven days a week. The enhanced route will feature an early morning and evening service at peak-times for commuters. It will provide improved connectivity to regional bus and rail services and facilitate onward travel to Waterford and Dublin. The route will offer enhanced connectivity to villages and areas such as Carrig-on-Bannow, Wellingtonbridge, Clongeen, Foulksmills, Taghmon, Barntown and Redmond Square in Wexford Town.

Route 388 was first launched in 2017 offering two return services per day but due to the high volume of passengers using it, additional evening services were added in 2018. The service has continued to grow even further which has again resulted in the addition of extra bus services on the route.

Speaking ahead of the launch, TFI Local Link Wexford, General Manager Mary B O’Leary said: “Working in partnership with the NTA we have listened to our passengers. They wanted additional mid-morning, mid-afternoon and more night time bus services. This new timetable will now allow more people to travel frequently between Wexford and Duncormick. The enhanced service is now suitable for those working or attending training, getting to and from appointments and also access to all the social activities in Wexford and the villages along the route.”

The timetable for the new service is here:

https://locallinkwexford.ie/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/388-Wexford-to-Duncormick.pdf

LXFlyer

Further changes in County Waterford for routes 363 and 667 (formerly the 367A).

https://www.locallinkwaterford.ie/tfi-local-link-waterford-announce-increased-services-on-363-tallow-to-dungarvan-and-667-dungarvan-to-waterford-routes/

TFI Local Link Waterford announce increased services on 363 Tallow to Dungarvan and 667 Dungarvan to Waterford routes.

363 Tallow to Dungarvan

From Monday 7th August Local Link will commence the roll-out of increased services on our 363 Tallow to Dungarvan service. In response to requests from the public we are introducing an earlier 06.30am service out of Tallow with the return service to Tallow leaving Dungarvan at 07.40am. This earlier service will allow passengers to link with our 667 (formerly 367a) to Waterford that will leave Dungarvan at 07.15am. We are also adding two additional evening services to fill some gaps in our current schedule. This will see us now operating almost hourly services from Tallow to Dungarvan between 06.30am and 22.00pm in response to the significant growth in passenger numbers on this route. We are also increasing the number of services we operate on Sundays from four to eight.

667 Dungarvan to Waterford City

Local Link are moving from two to four daily return services on this route. The new schedule which leaves Dungarvan at 07.15am and we anticipate that the increase in services will allow for better connections to SETU for students living in the areas of Stradbally, Bunmahon, Kill, and Dunhill. The new timetable will also allow for connections for people using our 363 service between Tallow and Dungarvan to Whitfield and Waterford University Hospitals. This also sees us re-routing the service in Waterford to avoid busy roads and we will now travel to WUH via John Street. We will no longer use the stops on Parnell Street and instead drop off on John Street and pick up at Railway Square. The change will also see services now operating on Sundays and Bank Holidays.

James O’Donoghue, Manager with TFI Local Link Waterford said “we would ask passengers to note the changes we are making to our current timetables, in particular on the 667 Dungarvan to Waterford service where the new timetable does mean some significant changes to current schedules, but we hope that the increase from two to four services, along with the introduction of services on Sundays and Bank Holidays will out-weight any short-term inconvenience”.

Further Developments

Speaking on new and enhanced services, Mr O’Donoghue added “we are progressing with the introduction of our 357 Youghal to Dungarvan service through Clashmore, Aglish and Villierstown. I am aware that people in the area were looking to have the service much earlier in the summer but there are a number of issues, not least the availability of new vehicles, delaying the process of putting a service in place. My hope is that we will be announcing the launch date of this service within the next few weeks.

We are also preparing the extension of the 361 Ardmore to Dungarvan service that will in future operate from Youghal through Ardmore, Old Parish and Ring, and looking at our 367 Tramore to Dungarvan service with a view to including stops in Clonea and The Gold Coast and finally for the moment, providing a link from Ballyduff Upper to our 363 service in Lismore.

So, there is a lot of change happening and we are delighted with the focus on the continuing development of local transport services under the Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Plan, developing services that along with addressing some of the gaps in public transport services across the County, will allow people to consider switching at least some journeys to public rather than private transport” he said.

For route and timetable information, call (058) 22076 or visit www.locallinkwaterford.ie

To learn more about the five year Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Plan visit: www.nationaltransport.ie/connecting-ireland/

Timetables are on the page linked to above

Also, route 356 Clonmel to Dungarvan has a revised timetable since July 3rd and this is available from the link below.

https://www.locallinkwaterford.ie/important-notice-356-dungarvan-to-clonmel-timetable-changes-from-monday-3rd-july/

IMPORTANT NOTICE – 356 Dungarvan to Clonmel timetable changes from Monday 3rd July

Having operated the Dungarvan to Clonmel service for three weeks and examining the results we are making the following changes to the timetable to ensure that the service can operate on time and we hope provide a better service for passengers. Our apologies for any inconvenience this may cause.

LXFlyer

Another new service for Co. Wexford, serving Hook Head is being introduced from 14 August, 2023.

https://www.transportforireland.ie/news/tfi-local-link-wexford-introduces-new-bus-service-between-hook-head-and-new-ross/

TFI Local Link Wexford introduces new bus service between Hook Head and New Ross

4TH AUGUST 2023

 TFI Local Link Wexford new route launching 14th of August 2023

TFI Local Link Wexford is launching a new bus service, which will improve connectivity between Hook Head and New Ross, from Monday 14th of August 2023.

This new route is part of the Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Plan which is a major national public transport initiative developed and funded by the National Transport Authority (NTA) as part of the Transport for Ireland (TFI) Network.

Route 399 will operate four daily return services a day

Route 399 will operate four daily return services a day, along with two additional services on Friday and Saturday. The new route will provide late evening and peak-time services for commuters and will provide a tourist connection to Hook Head Lighthouse, one of oldest working lighthouses in the world. The route from Hook Head to New Ross will offer enhanced connectivity to villages and areas such as Slade, Fethard, Saltmills, Ramsgrange, Ballyhack and Campile.

The service will also offer improved connectivity to regional bus services and the wider TFI Network, as it will connect with the Bus Éireann 370 service in Ramsgrange to facilitate onward travel to Waterford City.

Speaking ahead of the launch, TFI Local Link Wexford, General Manager MaryB O’Leary said: “It is great news for the Hook area to have a daily service around the peninsula and into New Ross. 

The service will not only facilitate travel between the villages on the peninsula and New Ross town but will also connect with other bus services in Ramsgrange to allow passengers to continue their journey into Waterford for work, education, leisure or health appointments.”

Additional information

For route and timetable information contact TFI Local Link Wexford  visit www.locallinkwexford.ie

To learn more about the five year Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Plan visit: www.nationaltransport.ie/connecting-ireland/

LXFlyer

A couple of changes during July:

Route 978 - Additional Services

TFI Local Link Mayo is delighted to announce a further Connecting Ireland enhancement to the 978-service serving Belmullet to Castlebar, this service operates three times a day, seven days a week with a regular Sunday and Bank Holiday service offering connectivity to regional bus and rail services.

The enhancement to the 978 service will provide greater connectivity as there will be two further schedules serving Mulranny, Newport and Castlebar.

The 978 Belmullet to Castlebar service connects with the Bus Eireann 450 Achill to Westport twice daily at a service interchange in Mulranny village.

For timetable information click here: https://tinyurl.com/u79h262n

Route 254 - Revised timetable

Route 254 Bandon to Kinsale update:

From Tuesday 18th July 2023 the 254 service will have a new Operator - B Kavanagh's & Sons Ltd & an updated Timetable, including a stop in Ballinadee.

https://www.transportforireland.ie/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/TFI-Local-Link-Cork-254-Timetable-23.pdf

LXFlyer

Route 834 between Roscrea and Portlaoise has extra services added since 1st August.

834 Portlaoise To Roscrea Service Announcement

TFI Local Link Laois Offaly are delighted to announce enhancements to our 834 Portlaoise to Roscrea service beginning tomorrow 1st August 2023. This means some time changes to current schedules along with extra services including a late night service Thursday to Saturday.

https://www.transportforireland.ie/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/TFI-Local-Link-Laois-Offaly-834-Portlaoise-to-Roscrea.pdf

LXFlyer

Another two new routes launching on August 21st, one linking Mountrath with Carlow, and the second linking Wellingtonbridge with New Ross.

https://www.transportforireland.ie/news/tfi-local-link-laois-offaly-launches-new-bus-service-connecting-mountrath-to-carlow/

TFI Local Link Laois Offaly launches new bus service connecting Mountrath to Carlow

11TH AUGUST 2023

TFI Local Link Laois Offaly is launching a new bus service, which will improve connectivity between Mountrath and Carlow, from Monday 21st of August 2023.

which is a major national public transport initiative developed and funded by the National Transport Authority (NTA) as part of the Transport for Ireland (TFI) Network.

Route 822 will operate four daily return services Monday to Saturday and three daily return services on Sunday, creating a new connection from Mountrath to Carlow.

The new service will provide improved connectivity to the SETU Carlow campuses as well as providing a peak-time service for commuters and improved connectivity to regional bus and rail services in Mountrath and Carlow. The route will offer enhanced connectivity to villages and areas such as Abbeyleix, Heywood Gardens, Ballinakill, The Swan, Clogh, Moneenroe, Crettyard, Newtown, Killeshin and Graiguecullen.

Speaking ahead of the launch TFI Local Link Laois Offaly General Manager Frances Byrne said: “We are delighted to launch Route 822 Mountrath to Carlow and increase our service provision in Laois.

“This new timetable has been designed to facilitate passengers travelling between towns and villages, which enables greater connectivity and creates access for employment, education, training, recreation, social and health purposes.

“I would encourage passengers to make the most of our public transport system as it’s not only an environmentally friendly option but also an inclusive and cheaper way to travel. Leap and TFI Go are accepted on this service along with the Free Travel Pass.

“The NTA is committed to the growth and development of local bus services, which in this case, is a brand-new high frequency service linking key rural towns that will provide opportunities for people to get to where they need to go.

“In partnership with the NTA, we support the Government’s Sustainable Mobility Policy and believe this new service and enhancements to existing services in Laois Offaly complement the policy and it will contribute to reducing CO2 emissions in the transport sector.”

For route and timetable information, call (057) 869 2168 or visit www.locallinklaoisoffaly.ie

To learn more about the five year Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Plan visit: www.nationaltransport.ie/connecting-ireland/

The timetable is here: https://www.transportforireland.ie/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/TFI-Local-Link-Laois-Offaly-822-Mountrath-to-Carlow.pdf

https://www.transportforireland.ie/news/tfi-local-link-wexford-launches-new-route-connecting-wellingtonbridge-to-new-ross/

TFI Local Link Wexford launches new route connecting Wellingtonbridge to New Ross

11TH AUGUST 2023

TFI Local Link Wexford connecting Wellingtonbridge and New Ross

TFI Local Link Wexford is launching a new bus service, which will improve connectivity between Wellingtonbridge and New Ross, from Monday 21th of August 2023.

This new route is part of the Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Plan which is a major national public transport initiative developed and funded by the National Transport Authority (NTA) as part of the Transport for Ireland (TFI) Network.

Route 392

Route 392 will operate five daily return services seven days a week. The new route will provide late evening and peak-time services for commuters and will offer enhanced connectivity to villages and areas such as Ballycullane, Gusserane, Newbawn and Ballinaboola.

The service will also offer improved connectivity to regional bus services and the wider TFI Network, with connections to New Ross via Gusserane and Newbawn.

Speaking ahead of the launch, TFI Local Link Wexford, General Manager MaryB O’Leary said: “TFI Local Link Wexford is thrilled to provide a daily service on route 392 to New Ross Town and surrounding villages. The addition of two evening services on Friday & Saturday, is welcomed by both rural and town communities.

“Route 392 brings to eight the number of seven day a week public transport services that TFI Local Link Wexford provides in the county. We will continue to work with the NTA to expand this network further which will provide more public transport options for more people around Co. Wexford.

“In addition to the seven day services we also provide over 60 one and two-day services across the county, many of these provide a door to door option which is ideal for those in the more remote areas of Co. Wexford.”

Additional Information

For route and timetable information contact TFI Local Link Wexford visit www.locallinkwexford.ie

To learn more about the five year Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Plan visit: www.nationaltransport.ie/connecting-ireland/

Finally the route 399 timetable has been released (Hook Head - New Ross). The route should have good tourist potential.

https://www.transportforireland.ie/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/TFI-Local-Link-Wexford-Route-399-Hook-Head-New-Ross.pdf

LXFlyer

Q2 Connecting Ireland Review:

https://www.nationaltransport.ie/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Connecting-Ireland-Bulletin-Q2-2023-PDF.pdf

Plenty to come in Q3 and Q4 this year, with quite a few enhanced services from Bus Éireann.

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/120982877#Comment_120982877

Holy crap thats a lot of services due before the end of the year