A bus user is calling for faster journeys and improvements to the 29 Regency bus route linking Crowborough with Tunbridge Wells and Brighton.
Federico Barbarossa, who has launched an online petition, says the existing 29 timetable is too slow, takes an excessive amount of time and is therefore not a viable public transport option.
The 29 service generally takes two hours to complete the trip from Tunbridge Wells to Brighton. The 29X service, a faster service with limited stops, operates only once early in the morning. It shaves almost 20 minutes off the complete journey.
Federico said introducing more 29X services during the day would be good for bus users and the environment. “This modification could significantly reduce travel time, making it a viable alternative for those who currently find the journey burdensome.
“The benefits of this change will be widespread, enabling quicker commutes, enhancing productivity, reducing stress, and encouraging more people to use public transport. These changes will not only make a considerable difference in our daily routines but will also contribute to reducing the carbon footprint, as more people will likely opt for a faster and more efficient public transport option.”
As it stands at the moment, the timetable does not meet the needs of people who commute for work or school, he added. “The current setup of this bus route does not meet our needs due to its slow stopping service between Tunbridge Wells and Brighton’s Churchill Square. The journey takes an excessive amount of time, affecting our daily lives and plans, diminishing our quality of life.
“A more efficient travel option is not just a matter of convenience—it is essential for those who commute daily, whether for work, education, or personal reasons. The route majorly impacts residents in Crowborough and nearby areas who are dependent on public transport to reach Brighton promptly and with ease.”
Federico said he understood the potential challenges in making the changes but emphasise the long-term benefits for residents and the environment. He urged bus users to sign his petition calling on Brighton & Hove Buses “to consider this proposal earnestly and work with us to improve the transport links between our communities to Brighton”.
Nick Hill, Commercial Director of Brighton & Hove Buses said: “Regency route 29 has been improved in recent years and now provides a daily link running every 30 minutes on most days to Tunbridge Wells, Uckfield, Lewes and Brighton.
“Brand new buses were introduced this year at an investment of £9 million. Adding an additional express bus every hour is unlikely to be financially viable, and converting an existing bus to an express bus would result in local communities no longer being served having halved their service. We will however continue to look at opportunities to further improve the service in the area.”
To sign Federico’s petition visit: https://www.change.org/p/improve-bus-service-29-for-faster-connections-to-brighton