Newquay night bus service returns for summer season

A night bus service in Newquay is set to return this weekend as part of a wider scheme aimed at improving safety and supporting the night-time economy across Devon and Cornwall.

The initiative is funded by the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner and delivered in partnership with councils, businesses and emergency services.

The service aims to reduce drink and drug driving, alcohol-related crime, antisocial behaviour and violence against women and girls by helping people get home safely after nights out.

The Newquay night bus will return from Saturday 23 May and run for 16 weeks until Saturday 5 September. A new service linking Perranporth and Newquay will also operate this summer.

Both routes will be run by Go Cornwall Bus, with journeys capped at a maximum of £3 each way.

Last year, the Newquay service operated for 14 weeks and carried 745 passengers, averaging 53 passengers per night.

Across Devon and Cornwall, more than 28,500 passengers have used night bus services since they were first trialled in 2023 as part of Christmas and summer schemes.

Police and Crime Commissioner Alison Hernandez said: “The night buses provide an easy and affordable way for people to enjoy a night out or go to work and know they can get home safely.

“Due to high passenger numbers, my office has committed to continue being the main funder of night buses where they are most needed throughout 2026 to ensure community safety and crime prevention which are among my key priorities.”

She added that the service had already contributed to reductions in antisocial behaviour, violence and drink and drug driving incidents.

Devon and Cornwall Police sector inspector Steve Johnson, based in Newquay, welcomed the return of the scheme.

He said: “The night bus has been shown to reduce antisocial behaviour, drink/drug drive related incidents and violence against women and girls.

“Partnership work is a key part of our prevention efforts and we’re pleased to be working alongside local businesses and councils to help prevent crime and improve safety.”