New bus services lined up Kildare towns next year

NEW or enhanced bus services for Naas and Newbridge are currently being assessed by the National Transport Authority (NTA), which could go live from 2027/2028 onwards.

Following representations made by Deputy Mark Wall to the NTA, the organisation has stated that passenger demand and supply in Newbridge, along with other towns, is being assessed as part of the next phase of new town bus services.

This comes in line with services launched in Carlow and Portlaoise, and the current phase of the Towns Bus Programme, which is expected to launch in 2026 or late 2027, adding new services to Mullingar, Ennis and Letterkenny.

Deputy Wall said: “I am pleased to share the latest update on the provision of a town bus service for the people of Newbridge. As one of the most populated towns in County Kildare, there is an ongoing need to increase the public transport options available.

“In the NTA’s reply to me, they have informed that they are currently planning for the next phase of the potential new town bus services. They are assessing passenger demand and the current supply of bus services in a number of towns, which they have said includes the town of Newbridge.

“The NTA intends to provide new or enhanced bus services in additional towns, with implementation beginning in 2027/2028 onwards. 

"This will be dependent on gaps in existing services and of course subject to operational readiness and the availability of funding to provide for such services."