Community celebrates return of vital bus link between Yate and Wotton-under-Edge
A wave of celebration is set to sweep through the community as the long-campaigned-for bus service the Y8 from Yate is to be reinstated to Wotton-under-Edge. The news comes after tireless lobbying from local campaign groups led by Barbara Lawrence, who united to restore a vital link for residents, businesses and visitors alike.
Grassroots community organisations were at the forefront of the campaign, drawing on passionate support from local people, businesses and local councillors. Their relentless efforts, countless meetings and public petitions highlighted just how crucial this service is for daily life in the area. The campaigners’ voices made it clear that reliable public transport is essential – not just for convenience, but for social connection, economic opportunity and sustainability.
Gloucestershire County Council would like to extend its thanks to the West of England Combined Authority (WECA) for the reinstating of this service. Their renewed commitment, funding and understanding of the wider value of community transport has been invaluable.
Campaigners are set to be absolutely over the moon to confirm that the service will be coming back. The bus will operate a circular route, starting and finishing in Yate, with every trip passing through Wotton-under-Edge. There will be 15 trips between Yate and Wotton on weekdays and 12 trips on Saturdays, ensuring flexibility and convenience for all.
The return of the bus will reconnect communities, support local shops and businesses and help to reduce car dependency or support those without that option – making it easier for people to get about.
Cllr. Roger Whyborn, Cabinet Member for Sustainable Transport and Strategic Highways said: “This has been great example of three council’s working together and with the local community to get this vital service reinstated and I’m delighted by the outcome. I’m aware that the council did a lot of work in the background to try to keep this service and to offer support via the Robin, but it’s great to see the Y8 is back as it should be serving the people of Wotton-under-Edge. Well done to the community for not letting this go.”
Cllr. Linda Cohen, Local Member for Wotton-under-Edge, commented: “This is a fantastic outcome for our communities. It shows what we can achieve when we all pull together for something we believe in. The restored service will make a real difference to people’s daily lives – from getting to work or college, to shopping, or just catching up with friends and family. I couldn’t be happier to see these buses back on our roads.”
With the support of WECA, the perseverance of local groups and the ongoing commitment of local councils, this is a real victory for everyone. The wheels will be turning once again, bringing our communities closer and offering a brighter, more connected future.
The new service will operate from 1 September 2025. WECA will be releasing the timetable shortly.