Over 400 residents join calls for Stagecoach to rethink harmful timetable changes

PRESS RELEASE FROM ALISTAIR STRATHERN MP

TUESDAY 26^th MAY 2026

Concerns are growing across local communities following Stagecoach’s announcement of significant timetable changes to the Number 9 bus service between Stevenage,  Hitchin and Bedford, due to take effect at the end of May.

The changes will see a reduction in service frequency, with these Number 9 buses serving places like Holwell, Arlesey and Shefford running once every two hours rather than one per hour.

Hitchin MP Alistair Strathern has written to Stagecoach to urge a reversal of the changes, and within days already over 400 have backed his campaign by signing a petition.

Anyone can sign his petition here: Reverse Stagecoach Bus Changes Petition

Strathern has received correspondence from constituents across his constituency concerned about changes, ranging from students to the elderly.

He has been campaigning since he became an MP for expanded bus services across the area. The Labour MP won extra Government funding for buses locally, including a pilot scheme for city-like bus franchising in Hertfordshire.

Alistair Strathern MP said:

“I know many people locally share my concerns about these proposed changes. A two-hour gap between services is simply not acceptable for our towns and villages.”

“Since being elected, I’ve consistently pushed for stronger powers and better funding for our bus services because I know just how important they are to communities like ours. I will continue pressing both Stagecoach to do all they can to revisit these changes.”