A rapid bus service connecting Cheltenham and Gloucester with buses every ten minutes has taken a significant step closer to becoming a reality. On November 3, Gloucestershire County Council approved £1.25 million to begin developing the project, signaling a strong commitment to improving mass rapid transit in central Gloucestershire.
The council is currently advancing a business case and early development plan for a mass rapid transit system — a high-capacity, high-frequency public transport network designed to serve urban areas efficiently. The proposed service aims to provide a zero-emission, reliable, and frequent public transport option that will enhance travel in Cheltenham, Gloucester, and nearby communities.
A route plan suggests the service could eventually extend from Bishop’s Cleeve to Quedgeley, passing through both Cheltenham and Gloucester. This mass rapid transit initiative will form the backbone of the county’s new express bus network, improving connectivity not only within the two cities but also to surrounding rural areas.
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Roger Whyborn, cabinet member for sustainable transport and strategic highways, highlighted the ambitious nature of the project during the cabinet meeting. Praising the extensive groundwork completed so far, he emphasized the need for practical, effective public transport solutions across Gloucestershire.
“We’re moving beyond decades of studies toward real action,” Whyborn said. “Our goal is to deliver seriously good public transport services everywhere in the county, starting with Gloucester, Cheltenham, and Tewkesbury — the areas earmarked for future housing growth.”
Current studies have ruled out rail-based rapid transit for the Severn Vale, citing insufficient population density and unclear routes for guided busways or tramways at this time. However, the council remains open to future possibilities as demand and development patterns evolve.
In the meantime, bus rapid transit—similar to the successful Belfast Glider system—is considered the most feasible option. Plans include immediate discussions with bus operators to enhance service frequency and quality. New electric buses are already being introduced on several key routes, supported by zero-emission bus funding.
Whyborn emphasized the importance of reliable, frequent services: “People will use public transit if buses run every ten minutes or better. We’re close to achieving this on the 94/94X corridor and aim to improve the busy number 10 route as well.”
The council allocated £1 million of developer contributions and £250,000 from its revenue budget to kickstart this project, marking a decisive move toward a cleaner, more efficient public transport future for Gloucestershire.