A fresh bus route is being introduced to better serve commuters and those heading to medical facilities.
The 600 orbital service will begin operations on May 3, linking Oxford’s primary employment areas, healthcare institutions, and the urban core.
The route originates at Oxford Rail Station and proceeds through the city centre, Abingdon Road, Redbridge Park & Ride, The Oxford Science Park, Kassam Stadium, Greater Leys, Cowley, Churchill Hospital, John Radcliffe Hospital, with its terminus at Thornhill Park & Ride.
According to Luke Marion, managing director of Oxford Bus Company, this orbital service represents a valuable expansion to their transportation network, linking numerous major workplaces across the city.
He noted it’s a crucial connection for daily travelers and expressed enthusiasm about securing the contract through the tendering process.
He added that the route has undergone enhancements and improvements, urging passengers to review the modified schedule before their journey.
The upgraded service emerged following a procurement process managed by Oxfordshire County Council, which selected Oxford Bus Company to operate the route.
Service 600 now offers better access to significant destinations, including The Oxford Science Park, both Oxford hospitals, and Park & Ride facilities at Redbridge and Thornhill.
Within Cowley, the route travels along Horspath Road, providing direct access to Headington hospitals and nearby employment areas.
In response to customer input, Oxford Bus Company has reinstated stops near Churchill Hospital, encompassing the main entrance, Sobell House, and the eastern entrance.
Buses will operate every 30 minutes from Monday through Saturday during daylight hours, switching to hourly service on weekday evenings and throughout Sundays.
Lisa Hofen, chief estates and facilities officer at Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, expressed support for the enhanced service.
She stated the new bus service would improve access to the Churchill Hospital location, emphasizing that dependable and reachable public transportation is vital for patients, visitors, and employees, facilitating easier attendance at appointments and supporting staff commutes.
She noted stronger connections to hospital facilities represent a genuine benefit, helping decrease vehicle trips while enhancing the experience for those utilizing their services.
Riders on the 600 can also take advantage of complimentary Park & Ride bus journeys, with this promotion continuing through at least the end of May.
Complimentary Park & Ride travel was initially launched in October as a pilot initiative alongside Oxfordshire County Council’s temporary congestion charge.
Travelers claiming a free return ticket must present a valid parking permit to the bus driver.
As many as two adults and three children can travel for free with each parking ticket.
Oxford’s Park & Ride facilities are situated at Redbridge, Seacourt, Thornhill, Pear Tree, and Oxford Parkway, with parking fees set at £2.50 for stays up to 16 hours.