Residents in several Cambridgeshire villages are urging transport operators to introduce an earlier service on the Peterborough to Stamford bus route. The Route 27 bus, which connects Peterborough with Stamford and serves Wittering, Wansford, Castor and Ailsworth, currently begins its first journey at 07:30 from Monday to Saturday. Campaigners say this timetable leaves many commuters and students unable to reach work or school on time.
Julia Cunnington, one of the residents leading the campaign, said: “People and students are struggling to get to work or King’s School or Peterborough College as the bus arrives in Peterborough too late for them to make it to where they need to be.” Stagecoach East, which operates the service, has been contacted for comment.
The Peterborough to Stamford bus route has a history of community involvement. It was withdrawn in 2019 but reinstated last year after a concerted effort by local campaigners and former Cambridgeshire and Peterborough mayor Nic Johnson. The service’s return was widely welcomed, but many villagers say the reinstated timetable fails to meet everyday needs. Before it was withdrawn, the bus ran earlier in the morning and stopped directly at King’s School, offering a lifeline to families and students across the area.
The situation has been made more difficult by the loss of other regional routes. The R4 bus between Peterborough and Uppingham, once managed by Rutland County Council, was scrapped earlier this year after being judged financially unsustainable. Passengers were advised to use the Callconnect on-demand bus service instead, but residents say this is far from ideal. “Callconnect can only be pre-booked and doesn’t always fit with people’s schedules,” Ms Cunnington said.
For many, the problem goes beyond convenience. Jean Jackson, a Wittering resident, explained how the timing gap affects daily life. “It’s very difficult. If you have an early appointment, there’s absolutely no way to get to Peterborough in time. You either have to book Callconnect or pay for a taxi.”
The Route 27 service currently runs four times a day, but a recent community survey found overwhelming demand for earlier and more frequent journeys. Ms Cunnington said more than 200 people responded, including over 60 students from King’s School and Peterborough College who depend on the route. “There’s clear evidence of demand for an earlier and more frequent service,” she said.
Local politicians have voiced support for the campaign. Peterborough First Group councillor Gavin Elsey praised residents for their determination, saying: “It was fantastic that campaigners managed to get the bus reinstated and to see how well used it has been since. However, the current timetable doesn’t serve the whole community. An earlier service is essential.” He added that while the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority helped bring the route back, further support was needed to make it viable for all users.
Paul Bristow, the current mayor of Cambridgeshire and Peterborough, acknowledged the issue and expressed willingness to engage with residents. “I am aware of the campaign and understand that well-timed public transport is vital for our villages and supporting people to get to work, school and appointments. The Combined Authority is looking forward to meeting with the residents’ group to understand their views in more detail.”
For those living along the Peterborough to Stamford bus route, the campaign represents more than just a plea for punctuality. It’s about keeping rural communities connected, ensuring access to education and employment, and protecting the public transport services that make village life sustainable.
