Bus link reinstated connecting Cheshire residents to Stepping Hill

Bus services between Cheshire East and Stepping Hill Hospital have been reinstated to provide better transport for hospital workers and users.

The 391 and 392 bus services, connecting Macclesfield, Bollington and Poynton with Stepping Hill and Stockport were suspended after the route’s operator, Manchester Community Transport (MCT), ceased trading. Cheshire East Council has now announced that Go Goodwins will run the service from Monday 22nd June.

Due to the pandemic, it was not possible for a replacement operator to be found before MCT withdrew the bus route, which had been used by many hospital staff commuting to Stepping Hill.

Councillor Craig Browne, Cheshire East Council’s deputy leader, said:

I am pleased that we are able to support this service and facilitate its reinstatement.

“I am aware that a number of people, including key workers, were seriously affected by its loss during the lockdown period and that the council – through its transport company Transport Service Solutions – was able to assist several key workers with their travel to and from work using the Flexilink bus.

“I am hopeful that during these challenging times the new service can be sustained and is well used. It is important that as lockdown measures are eased, residents are given the opportunity to support local businesses and attend urgent appointments.”

Eccles-based Go Goodwins will operate hourly weekday services, and one bus every 90 minutes on Saturdays, calling close to Stepping Hill Hospital and at Stockport bus station.