Police support launch of night buses to get party-goers home safe

Night buses will now be available in Torbay, running into the early hours of the morning every Saturday from 2 November until 21 December, providing a safe travel option for people who are out in the evenings.

The service has been funded by the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner (OPCC) as part of the Street Focus: Torquay project. This is a multi-agency approach to bring real, long-term change to the area and increase community safety.

A successful night bus trial in North Devon and Newquay this summer resulted in a significant reduction in antisocial behaviour and drink and drug-related incidents during the evening and night time economy. Devon & Cornwall Police aim to see the same trend following the introduction of the buses in Torbay.

The night bus services will be provided by Stagecoach and single journeys will cost just £2. The service will operate on Saturdays over the festive period, plus Friday 20 December – also known as ‘Builders Friday’ and New Years Eve, in a bid to reduce drink and drug-related incidents.

Set up by Devon & Cornwall Police and the OPCC, the night bus service also has the support of Torbay Council.

Chief Superintendent Roy Linden, who heads up police teams across South Devon, said: “We know that as we approach the busy festive season we’re going to see an increase in the number of people visiting Torquay to enjoy the great night life the town has to offer.

“Alcohol and drugs affect a person’s ability to accurately judge a situation which can contribute to issues such as drink or drug driving, violence against women and girls and antisocial behaviour.

“Torbay remains a safe place to live, work and enjoy a night out but our hope is that these night buses will make it even safer by offering party-goers a cost-effective and convenient travel option to get home safely, and in turn, reduce the opportunity for drink or drug-related incidents to take place.”

Police and Crime Commissioner Alison Hernandez, who is also chair of the Vision Zero South West road safety partnership, said: “Everyone should be able to get home safely, whether they’re coming from work or a night out. The night bus service provides an easy, affordable option for late night travel, helping to reduce the risk of drink or drug-related incidents. We’re committed to ensuring Torquay is a safe place to enjoy an evening out and I hope people take full advantage of this service throughout the festive season.”

Councillor Adam Billings, Torbay Council’s Cabinet Member for Pride in Place and Parking, said: “This service will be particularly welcome for women planning a night out. I hope it encourages more people to think about visiting our town centres over the festive season to enjoy our thriving night time economy.”

Tickets for the services cost £2 for a single journey. The service runs from 12:30am - 4:30am. Full timetables (pictured) will be available on the Stagecoach website once the service is live in November, covering Torquay, Preston, Paignton and Brixham (search Route 12): https://www.stagecoachbus.com/timetables