Cumberland Council is giving residents more opportunities to travel by bus, with new and updated services connecting Cockermouth, Papcastle and surrounding communities.
From Monday 2 November, the 68 service between Cockermouth and Maryport will continue to operate, with some changes to journey times.
Cockermouth’s existing C123 town service will become the C1, C2 and C3, alongside the introduction of the new C4 service, providing Papcastle with a bus connection to Cockermouth town centre.
The 68 and C1, C2, C3 and C4 services will all be operated by Stagecoach.
The changes follow the council’s recent announcement confirming continued investment in supported bus services across Cumberland, helping communities stay connected to employment, education, healthcare, shopping and other essential services.
Whether travelling for work, appointments, shopping or to see friends and family, the council is encouraging residents to consider the bus as a convenient and relaxing way to travel.
The services form part of a wider package of supported bus contracts being progressed by Cumberland Council for 2026/27, worth £2.89 million. Contracts will run for 12 months from the individual service start dates.
Councillor Denise Rollo, Cumberland Council’s Executive Member for Sustainable, Resilient and Connected Places, said:
“This is great news for residents in Cockermouth and the surrounding communities, helping to maintain important local bus connections and providing a new link for residents in Papcastle and Cockermouth.
“We want to encourage people to make the most of these services. Whether for work, shopping, appointments or seeing friends and family, the bus offers another convenient way to get around while helping support the future of local public transport.”
The council’s investment in supported services is designed to improve access to employment, education, healthcare and essential services, while helping to reduce rural and social isolation and support more sustainable travel.
Residents are encouraged to check the new timetables before travelling.
More information about bus services and timetables can be found on the Cumberland Council website: www.cumberland.gov.uk/bus-timetables