Stagecoach to stop running Preston park & ride Capitol Centre service from Walton-le-Dale to city centre

Stagecoach will stop running the Preston park and ride in December, leaving the service at risk of being scrapped unless a new operator can be found.

The bus firm has indicated to Lancashire County Council that it will not seek to renew its contract for the service, which operates between the Capitol Centre in Walton-le-Dale and the city centre.

The Council said it will provide an official statement on Friday (October 16), but has confirmed that the contract for the service is “currently under review”.

In response to enquiries from members of the public, the Council said: “The current Park and Ride contract at Walton-le-Dale is due to expire at the end of December.

“At present, we are unable to confirm whether a new contract will be procured, as the future of the service is still being considered and discussions are ongoing at senior management level.”

Stagecoach has operated the park and ride since 2019, with services running every 10 minutes, Monday to Friday from 7am to 7.30pm. It allows passengers to park up for free and catch the bus into the city centre for £2.50 (adult return).

The park and ride opened at the Capitol Centre in December 2002 and the contract for the service has alternated between Stagecoach and Preston Bus.

Stagecoach were approached for comment.