A BUS service facing imminent closure has been pulled back from the brink.

The owners of Southampton Mini Link announced earlier this week the service was going to cease due to “unforeseen circumstances.”

However, following an outpouring of support from within the bus industry some services will continue to operate.

Daily Echo: Simon Gard at Southampton Mini Link. Photo: Steve Brine MPSimon Gard at Southampton Mini Link. Photo: Steve Brine MP (Image: Steve Brine MP)

Owner Simon Gard said: “We hope these temporary timetables will allow the local community to still access bus services until alternative services can be put in place.

“It is still hoped that we can continue with the expansion of the 13A from October 31 2022 following another operator making cuts to services in the area.

READ MORE: Popular bus service axed as owners face ‘unforeseen circumstances’

“This is a route that provides a service to the community where many don’t have access to a car and since the start of the 13A in October 2021 we have seen significant passenger growth.”

The C bus, which travels from Eastleigh to Chandler’s Ford, will operate a temporary timetable, Monday to Friday, until October 28.

By this time Hampshire County Council is expected to have alternative transport arrangements in place.

The 13A bus which serves the city centre to Harefield will continue with its weekend-only timetable until October 30.

Speaking on this service, Simon said: “It is hoped that the planned increase of service to Monday to Sunday will still be able to go ahead from October 31 and further details will be available shortly.

Unfortunately, the 14 service from the city centre to Chartwell Green will be withdrawn from October 7 due to limited staff.

A message from the Editor

Thank you for reading this article - we appreciate your support in reading the Daily Echo.

Subscribing to the Echo means you have unrestricted access to the latest news, features and Saints coverage - all with an advertising-light website.

You will also have full access to Saintsplus, your new home for Southampton FC tactical analysis, features and much, much more.

Don't just take my word for it - subscribe today.

Follow the latest breaking news in the Southampton area by searching Southampton News - Breaking News and Incidents on Facebook

Follow the latest court and crime news on our dedicated group by searching Hampshire Court and Crime News on Facebook