TFI Local Link Laois Offaly is launching a new bus service, which will improve connectivity between Mountrath and Carlow, from Monday 21st of August 2023.

This new route is part of the Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Plan which is a major national public transport initiative developed and funded by the National Transport Authority (NTA) as part of the Transport for Ireland (TFI) Network.

Route 822 will operate four daily return services Monday to Saturday and three daily return services on Sunday, creating a new connection from Mountrath to Carlow.

The new service will provide improved connectivity to the SETU Carlow campuses as well as providing a peak-time service for commuters and improved connectivity to regional bus and rail services in Mountrath and Carlow.  The route will offer enhanced connectivity to villages and areas such as Abbeyleix, Heywood Gardens, Ballinakill, The Swan, Clogh, Moneenroe, Crettyard, Newtown, Killeshin and Graiguecullen.

Speaking ahead of the launch TFI Local Link Laois Offaly General Manager Frances Byrne said: “We are delighted to launch Route 822 Mountrath to Carlow and increase our service provision in Laois.

“This new timetable has been designed to facilitate passengers travelling between towns and villages, which enables greater connectivity and creates access for employment, education, training, recreation, social and health purposes.

“I would encourage passengers to make the most of our public transport system as it’s not only an environmentally friendly option but also an inclusive and cheaper way to travel. Leap and TFI Go are accepted on this service along with the Free Travel Pass.

“The NTA is committed to the growth and development of local bus services, which in this case, is a brand-new high frequency service linking key rural towns that will provide opportunities for people to get to where they need to go.

“In partnership with the NTA, we support the Government’s Sustainable Mobility Policy and believe this new service and enhancements to existing services in Laois Offaly complement the policy and it will contribute to reducing CO2 emissions in the transport sector.”

ENDS

For route and timetable information, call (057) 869 2168 or visit www.locallinklaoisoffaly.ie

To learn more about the five year Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Plan visit: www.nationaltransport.ie/connecting-ireland/