THURROCK Council has announced improved bus connections to train stations and shopping facilities on some of its financially supported routes will be introduced later this month.

The authority says Route 33 will be merged with route 88 creating a new 88 service providing direct links between Chafford Hundred, Thurrock Community Hospital, Stifford Clays and Orsett Hospital.

There will be a new Monday to Friday off peak and Saturday link to Lakeside on route 88, and Route 73 will be extended, to and from Tilbury Asda at all times.

The weekday extension beyond Aveley to Purfleet-on-Thames on route 22 will no longer operate and will become part of route 44 instead with a new link between Purfleet-on-Thames and Ockendon Station via route 44A.

Cllr Alan Benson, Deputy Leader and Portfolio Holder for Transport and Highways, said: "We know how important the local bus services are for many people and we are working hard with bus providers to adapt services to meet the needs of our residents and local businesses."

The 22, 73 and 88 are part-funded through the council's Bus Service Improvement Plan. The 44a extension is funded by developer contributions.

The changes come into force from Saturday, 29 August.