Farsley Residents Fight for Return of Vital 508 Bus Route

A petition wants the 508 bus route back. It already has over 1,100 signatures. Farsley residents worry about access, as the bus changed routes last year. It now uses the ring road and bypass, meaning it no longer goes through Farsley.

Simon Banoub started the campaign in November 2024. He says the change really hurts Farsley and states it’s a lifeline for many people. Some lost jobs because of the change, which also creates extra travel costs.

First Bus hasn’t promised to bring back the bus and says they are watching how many people use it. Banoub says First Bus hasn’t shared details and claims First Bus is ignoring them. They need First Bus to listen.

Local councillors have written to First Bus and contacted the West Yorkshire Combined Authority. They opposed the route change from the start. A new 60a bus route exists now, and while this route helps some with connections, it doesn’t fully replace the old 508 bus.

The councillors say passenger numbers are down now. First Bus hoped speeding up the route would work, and they are asking First Bus to reconsider. They should consider the impact on the community, as the area struggles with poor connectivity.

Another councillor says First Bus isn’t listening. He also says the Mayor and WYCA aren’t listening, and feels they only offer empty promises.

First Bus says they won’t restore the 508 route in Farsley. There’s another bus for people going to Leeds, and this makes restoring the 508 less likely. They will keep watching how many people use the bus, and know the Combined Authority answered the complaint.