Evening buses linking Wells and Shepton Mallet to Bath have been saved after a public backlash over proposed cuts to the 174 route.

First Bus had planned to withdraw early evening services after 5pm from April, prompting concern across Wells, Croscombe and Shepton Mallet. Campaigners warned the move would leave workers, school pupils and older residents struggling to get home.

Following a petition and a protest in Wells on Saturday, February 14, Liberal Democrat councillor Claire Sully said the operator has now agreed to reinstate two evening journeys.

"Our voice has been heard — working together with bus users, Somerset Bus Partnership, Somerset Council and our MPs," she said.

According to Cllr Sully, First Bus now proposes to restore:

• The 6.13pm service through to Bath
• The 7.02pm service terminating at Midsomer Norton, with a connection to the 172 for onward travel to Bath

She said there may be minor timetable adjustments before the full schedule is confirmed.

The 174 is a key corridor linking Wells and Shepton Mallet with Bath, as well as communities including Croscombe, Midsomer Norton and Radstock. Campaigners had argued that cutting evening services would force some passengers to rely on taxis, miss shifts or rearrange childcare.

Cllr Sully urged residents in Wells and Shepton Mallet to continue using the route to protect its long-term future, and called for bus companies to carry out proper consultation before making service changes.

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It is not yet clear when the revised timetable will be formally published. First Bus has not issued further details within the information provided.

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