New Southampton Bluestar bus routes announced for next year

The bus operator, which already runs services across the city, says it wants to "reassure" customers affected by City Red's withdrawal from the city.

The bus firm has recently confirmed it would step in to ensure those living and working in Southampton would still be able to travel across the areas currently served by First Bus.

From Sunday, February 19, Bluestar will add five new routes to its services covering the same routes City Red currently do.

The new routes will link Lordshill, Townhill Park, Harefield, Hedge End, Thornhill and Hamble with the city centre.

The operator is managed by Go South Coast which also owns MoreBus in Dorset and Salisbury Reds.

READ MORE: Bluestar steps in as City Red cuts all bus services in Southampton

MoreBus managing director, Andrew Wickham said: “We understand people’s concerns that our fellow operator’s decision to leave Southampton could leave them stranded in some parts of the city where we are not already operating services - but I’m pleased to say this will not be the case.

“Today, we are issuing details of our new routes, giving people the reassurance they need that their journeys will still be covered.

“We will be issuing detailed timetables shortly, giving people plenty of notice to plan their journeys.”

The operator is also aiming to recruit more than 100 new drivers to operate its expanded services, with City Red drivers who meet the criteria set to be offered guaranteed employment from February 19.

Mr Wickham added: “This should be good news for any First Bus drivers who are concerned about their careers.

“I’m pleased to report that Bluestar is increasing its rate of pay from January.

“We’ll be offering First City Red drivers who meet our criteria guaranteed employment from 19 February.

“We are very much looking forward to welcoming our new colleagues and customers when we begin the new services next year.”

For a limited period, the company will also be offering a £2,000 welcome bonus for experienced drivers with a PCV license who commit to join the operator from February 19 before the end of the year.

READ MORE: 'Distressing news' as City Red set to axe all services in Southampton

New services

Bluestar 10 (currently City Red 9) city centre to Sholing

Bluestar 13 (currently City Red 13) city centre to Harefield

Bluestar 14 (currently City Red 8) city centre to Hedge End

Bluestar 15 (currently City Red 6) city centre to Hamble

Bluestar 19 (currently City Red 3) Lordshill to Thornhill - but re-routed via Maybush Corner instead of Warren Avenue. 

Bluestar 20 (currently City Red 7) city centre to Townhill Park

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