Bradford hospitals included on route of new bus service

The new ‘Bradford Superloop’ has been launched by West Yorkshire Mayor Tracy Brabin.

West Yorkshire Combined Authority, working with Bradford-based operator TLC, is funding the new 601/602 route through its Bus Service Improvement Plan (BSIP) as part of the mayor’s drive to boost connectivity.

Mayor Brabin said: "We know it’s been a difficult time for passengers in Bradford with the closure of the Interchange bus station and the roadworks linked to investment in the city centre.

West Yorkshire Mayor Tracy Brabin (Image: WYCA)

“But we’re determined to boost West Yorkshire’s bus services to create a better-connected region.

“Along with our £2 Mayor’s Fares, this service will make it easier for people to get to and from hospital appointments.”

The circular service will connect areas like Idle, Undercliffe, Laisterdyke, and Dudley Hill to both Bradford Royal Infirmary and St Luke’s Hospital.

The route also takes in shopping and leisure hotspots such as Lister Park, Five Lane Ends retail park, and Morrisons Mayo Avenue, while incorporating the current 629 route, connecting Shipley, Heaton, and Great Horton.

Sophie Lambert, commercial manager of TLC buses said: “TLC is delighted to be working with West Yorkshire Combined Authority to introduce the new 601/602 service.

“As a small operator we pride ourselves on our local roots, that is why we cannot wait to serve even more communities around Bradford.

“We look forward to welcoming all our new and existing passengers onboard.”

The news follows the announcement in May that the Mayor has chosen to eventually bring West Yorkshire’s buses under local control through a process known as franchising.

A WYCA spokesperson said: “In the meantime, the Combined Authority is committed to delivering bus services through BSIP.

“The BSIP has seen the introduction of the £2 Mayor’s Fares, increased frequencies on key routes, investment in bus stations and shelters and new bus services launching across West Yorkshire.

“The Combined Authority has also helped to train some of the bus drivers using the new 601/602 services, through its bus driver training programme.”

Councillor Alex Ross Shaw, Bradford Council’s executive member for regeneration, planning and transport, said: “This is very welcome news for our residents. We’re ambitious to see our district better-connected and a brand-new service will make it easier for people to get around the district – whether that’s to work, visiting friends or enjoying a day or evening out.

“It’s also very useful for those people who need to access health services at St Luke’s Hospital and Bradford Royal Infirmary.”