THANKS to additional funding provided by Thurrock Council, bus services linking Lakeside, Grays, Tilbury, Chadwell St Mary and Stanford-le-Hope and Corringham, as well as onward connections to Basildon, are to be increased.

First bus has announced that, from Sunday, 22 February, there will be more buses running during the evening and on weekends.

The 100 service will increase to 30 minutes in the evening (Monday-Saturday) from the current hourly timetable. New trips every hour will also operate on Sunday evenings for the first time. 

Earlier and later journeys will be provided Monday to Saturday on the 200 service together with a new 90-minute frequency on Sundays.

James McCluskey, Commercial Director of First Bus in Essex, said: "We are delighted to announce this expansion to these services in partnership with Thurrock Council.

"This creates improved journeys to support the local economy including retail, leisure and shift working."

The 200 service to Tilbury will also provide connections to new Asda and Lidl stores.

Cllr Victoria Holloway, cabinet member for place and the environment, said: "Buses are a lifeline for so many of our residents.

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"By extending these services, we're giving people greater freedom to travel, whether it's getting to work, supporting local shops and leisure venues, or simply visiting family and friends."

The enhancements are funded through the Council's Bus Service Improvement Plan.

Full details together with timetables can be found on the First Bus website Service Changes from 22nd February | First Bus

Though the changes will begin on 22 February, it is likely initial changes will not benefit Stanford until March because of the continued and extended gas works on London Road, which means both the 100 and 200 are on diversion, with only one stop on the westbound routes operating to serve homes to the west of the town's train station.