Some residents will already be aware that Central Connect is withdrawing bus services 86 and 93 from Saturday, 31 January. These routes currently link Grantham with Bottesford, Barrowby Gate, Bingham, and Nottingham.
I know how worrying sudden bus changes can be, especially for people who rely on them for work, education, medical appointments, or shopping. That is why Lincolnshire County Council and Leicestershire County Council have worked together to put replacement services in place.
What is changing?
- Service 86 (Grantham to Bottesford) will stop on 31 January
- Service 93 (Grantham to Barrowby Gate, Bottesford, Bingham and Nottingham) will also stop on 31 January
These decisions were taken by the bus operator, not the councils.
What replacement services are being put in place?
From Monday, 2 February, new temporary services will begin.
Grantham to Bottesford
- A replacement service will run between Grantham and Bottesford
- It will be operated using Lincolnshire County Council CallConnect buses
- Services will run as 93A and 93B, alternating via Barrowby and Barrowby Gate
- The service will run for six months initially
This is a reduced service compared with what ran previously, but it ensures the route does not disappear completely while longer-term options are assessed.
Bottesford to Bingham and Nottingham
- Centrebus will operate three return journeys per day, Monday to Saturday
- The route will run between Grantham, Bottesford and Nottingham, including links to Bingham
- This service is being funded by Leicestershire County Council for an initial six-month period
Why is this only temporary?
These arrangements are a bridging solution. Over the next six months, both councils will:
- Collect passenger usage data
- Speak to residents and parish councils
- Assess what level of service is realistic and sustainable long-term
That evidence will be used to shape future decisions about the route.
What happens next?
Timetables and detailed journey information will be shared shortly. I will make sure these are circulated locally as soon as they are available.
If you use these routes, your feedback matters. Passenger numbers and resident views will directly influence what happens next.
As your local county councillor, I will continue to press for clear communication, proper engagement, and the best possible outcome for residents affected by these changes.
If you have concerns or specific issues with the new arrangements, please get in touch.