Airport Bus Cuts Hit Rural Commuters | Leicester News

A major chunk of the Airway Nine bus route — connecting Burton, Swadlincote, Ashby, and East Midlands Airport — is being axed, cutting off direct access for thousands in Ashby, Lount, and Melbourne. Blamed on local councils pulling funding, the decision came after a long buildup and was finalized under the new East Midlands Combined County Authority led by Mayor Claire Ward. With major employers like DHL and Amazon expanding near the airport, the loss of this vital link threatens job access and regional connectivity, especially for those without cars. While the Prime Minister’s two-dollar fare cap offers some relief, it doesn’t fix the disappearing service — particularly in rural areas needing multiple routes. Local MPs are stepping in, but Mayor Ward’s office hasn’t responded yet. Meanwhile, her free bus initiative for youth is a step forward, though Diamond Buses — the operator — has already opted out of the fare cap. For now, the impact on commuters and communities remains a serious concern. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/303c97e9c0de4c51