Norfolk bus service improvements have delivered significant changes to public transport across the county, helping to boost passenger numbers and reduce journey times. Since 2022, the county has seen a 26% increase in bus usage, making Norfolk a leading example of sustainable travel in the UK.
The improvements are part of Norfolk County Council’s Bus Service Improvement Plan, supported by £65.45 million in funding from the Department for Transport. A report presented to the council’s Infrastructure and Development Committee on 22 January outlines the key achievements to date. Services have expanded across more than 44 routes, including new evening and Sunday buses, giving residents more options and flexibility for travel throughout the week.
Infrastructure upgrades have played a crucial role in Norfolk bus service improvements. Six new bus lanes and eight junction enhancements have made journeys faster and more reliable. Changes to the Angel Road junction in Norwich have reduced travel times into the city by almost 20%. Similarly, bus lanes on Queen’s Road and Thorpe Road in Norwich have cut journey times by up to 9%. In Great Yarmouth, a redesigned one-way system has removed five minutes from peak-time trips, while 45 traffic light priority sites now give buses green lights for smoother travel.
Affordable fares are another important part of Norfolk bus service improvements. Key towns now have capped single fares, and multi-operator tickets make it easier for passengers to travel across different services. The move towards a greener fleet is also underway, with 75 zero-emission buses currently operating in Norwich and 24 additional electric buses planned for 2026. Passenger experience has been enhanced with real-time travel information, safer waiting areas, and next-stop announcements on an increasing number of routes.
These measures are not only attracting more passengers but also improving customer satisfaction, which has risen to 87%, well above national trends.
Councillor Graham Plant, cabinet member for highways, infrastructure and transport, said; “This investment marks a landmark moment for public transport in Norfolk. Our partnership with bus operators is delivering cleaner, faster, and more reliable travel for everyone and with new funding secured for bus travel right up to 2030 we can now continue with the excellent work, expand services, improve accessibility and make bus travel a real choice for even more people across Norfolk.”
Norfolk bus service improvements demonstrate how targeted investment, infrastructure upgrades, and customer-focused policies can transform public transport and encourage more sustainable travel choices.
