Calls to change First Essex S2 bus to include Stane Park

The S2 bus route, run by First Bus Essex, operates between Stanway, Colchester city centre and Highwoods and is a widely used route amongst visitors, residents, and daily commuters.

However, despite bus stops being marked out ready for service, no decision has yet been made to provide a bus service to serve the newly developed Stane Retail Park.

Colchester councillor for the Stanway ward, Jeremy Hagon, is pushing for the route to be extended to take those riding the route to the Stane Park area.

Stanway councillor Jeremy Hagon (Image: Public)

Speaking to the Gazette, he said: “The retail and leisure parks have been very successful.

“They are a popular shopping and dining destination for many across the city and beyond, providing needed employment opportunities right here in Stanway. 

“It’s important however that we secure a bus service to this side of the centre, providing an alternative choice in transport for everyone.

“The bus stops are marked out and ready to go, and we know people are wanting for the local bus service to be extended here as soon as possible.

“The right decision now needs to be made - to provide better journeys for all - to these new local services.”

It is hoped any decision to agree to review the S2 bus route will also consider whether the existing service could be extended to serve residents in the nearby Lakelands development. 

A First Essex bus (Image: Newsquest)

Work began on the Lakelands development more than a decade ago, which has seen hundreds of homes built.

The first phase, which included 200 homes, was completed when the Western Bypass road opened, linking the A12 and Warren Lane.

As well as the homes, the development has included a primary school, offices, industrial and warehouse units.

The new Lakelands Centre opened earlier this year, with the Anti Loo Roll Brigade moving into the site.

Essex County Council confirmed the S2 bus is a commercial route and therefore any decision to extend it would rest with the operator.

First Essex was contacted for comment by The Gazette.