University of Northampton announces new transport partnership with Stagecoach

The University of Northampton will be switching bus transport provider to local company, Stagecoach from next spring.

Stagecoach, which has been providing an established network of bus transport links UK-wide since 1980, will be taking over the reins from Uno as service provider for the University from March 2024.

This decision has come as a result of the changing public transport landscape, and a growing desire to better integrate transport services at the University of Northampton with the local town and beyond.

By becoming part of the local bus network, the University of Northampton will be in a position to offer its staff, students and wider community improved links with Northampton and its neighbouring towns.

Stagecoach are planning to provide routes centred on the University which are currently delivered by Uno in Northampton, which include the Number 18 (Waterside Campus to Park & Ride – Sixfields), Number 19/19A (Waterside Campus to Kingsthorpe – Scholars Green Halls of Residence), and the Number 21 (Rectory Farm to the Town Centre via Weston Favell).

Changes will come into effect from 10 March 2024, with Uno continuing to provide a reliable transport service until this date. Staff and students will now have access to a much wider network of services across the town and beyond. All students located at Scholars Green Halls of Residence will continue to receive subsidised travel to and from the University Campus.

Director of Estates & Campus Services Tracey Russell said: “We are thankful for the service provided by Uno buses for the past ten years and look forward to continue delivering a gold star service with Stagecoach.

“We are proud of the transport links we have already built between University sites, accommodation buildings and the main travel hubs of Northampton, and we look forward to continuing to nurture these in the coming years.

“Alongside both Uno and Stagecoach, we are working hard to ensure a smooth transition between providers to minimise impact on our service users, as well as maintain value for money and quality of service.”

Mark Whitelocks, Managing Director, Stagecoach Midlands said “We are delighted to be extending our network to include these additional services. We already welcome many University of Northampton students and staff on board and we’re proud to now be serving the very heart of the University.”