| First Bus pulling out of Cornwall, 14.2.2026 Posted by grahame at 12:32, 21st November 2025 |     |
Posting in "The Rumour Mill" until I'm sure this is in the public realm, at which point I will move the thread
Dear /Redacted/
I am writing to inform you of an important and difficult decision regarding the future of our operations in Kernow. After an extensive review and the exhaustion of all viable alternatives, First Bus has announced its intention to close its entire operation in the county, with the final day of service scheduled for Saturday 14 February 2026.
This decision has not been taken lightly. Our Kernow operation has faced sustained financial challenges over a prolonged period, which have intensified in recent years due to rising operating costs and increased competition from other providers. Despite implementing a number of transformation initiatives aimed at growing passenger numbers and reducing costs, the business has continued to make significant losses and is no longer financially viable.
As part of this proposal, First Bus intends to withdraw from all five of its depots in Camborne, Falmouth, Penzance, Summercourt and Truro. Regrettably, this places 275 roles at risk, and we are working closely with all affected colleagues to provide support and explore alternative employment opportunities both within First Bus and across our parent company, FirstGroup.
Until the proposed closure date, we remain fully committed to maintaining normal service levels for passengers across our current network in the county. We are also working collaboratively with Cornwall Council and through the Council, with other local operators to ensure a smooth and well-managed transition, minimising disruption to local communities and passengers who depend on these services.
These plans do not in any way detract from the commitment of our colleagues, who have worked tirelessly to provide the best possible service to local communities in Cornwall. Supporting our people through this process is now our top priority.
We recognise the significance of this decision for the communities and stakeholders we serve, and we are committed to maintaining open communication throughout this process. Further details regarding the proposals and next steps will be shared in the coming weeks as plans progress.
We would like to take this opportunity to thank you for your ongoing partnership and support over many years. Should you wish to discuss this matter further, I would be happy to meet with you.
Yours sincerely
Simon
I am writing to inform you of an important and difficult decision regarding the future of our operations in Kernow. After an extensive review and the exhaustion of all viable alternatives, First Bus has announced its intention to close its entire operation in the county, with the final day of service scheduled for Saturday 14 February 2026.
This decision has not been taken lightly. Our Kernow operation has faced sustained financial challenges over a prolonged period, which have intensified in recent years due to rising operating costs and increased competition from other providers. Despite implementing a number of transformation initiatives aimed at growing passenger numbers and reducing costs, the business has continued to make significant losses and is no longer financially viable.
As part of this proposal, First Bus intends to withdraw from all five of its depots in Camborne, Falmouth, Penzance, Summercourt and Truro. Regrettably, this places 275 roles at risk, and we are working closely with all affected colleagues to provide support and explore alternative employment opportunities both within First Bus and across our parent company, FirstGroup.
Until the proposed closure date, we remain fully committed to maintaining normal service levels for passengers across our current network in the county. We are also working collaboratively with Cornwall Council and through the Council, with other local operators to ensure a smooth and well-managed transition, minimising disruption to local communities and passengers who depend on these services.
These plans do not in any way detract from the commitment of our colleagues, who have worked tirelessly to provide the best possible service to local communities in Cornwall. Supporting our people through this process is now our top priority.
We recognise the significance of this decision for the communities and stakeholders we serve, and we are committed to maintaining open communication throughout this process. Further details regarding the proposals and next steps will be shared in the coming weeks as plans progress.
We would like to take this opportunity to thank you for your ongoing partnership and support over many years. Should you wish to discuss this matter further, I would be happy to meet with you.
Yours sincerely
Simon
| Re: First Bus pulling out of Cornwall, 14.2.2026 Posted by ellendune at 14:38, 21st November 2025 | |
It is definitely public https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c62l47g2mj1o
