Bus service connecting Barr and Girvan thrives with community support
The CB8 bus service, a crucial lifeline connecting the rural village of Barr with the town of Girvan, is proving to be a vital asset for the community, thanks to strong support from local residents, campaigning from the Community Council and ongoing financial support from the Barr Community Fund provided by SSE Renewables and Nadara.
After years of having no bus service at all, the return of the CB8 route in 2018 brought renewed energy and connection to the area, making it easier for people to access essential services, leisure activities, and family visits and is a great example of a community-led transport solution.
The service, operated by South Ayrshire Community Transport (SACT), has seen significant growth in recent years. It runs four times a week.
In the 2023-24 period, 3,194 journeys were made, an increase of over 1,000 trips compared to the previous year. This rise in passenger numbers shows the bus service’s importance to the local community. Whether it’s for swimming lessons, shopping or trips out, the CB8 has become a dependable and valued part of daily life.
SACT has worked hard to ensure the service meets the community’s needs, holding consultations in both 2020 and 2023, and attending a well-received public meeting in Barr earlier this year. Residents have overwhelmingly expressed their support for the bus route, highlighting how crucial it is for reducing social isolation and enhancing the quality of life for people of all ages.
One local user shared:
This service is absolutely brilliant... it helps us keep up with family further afield.
Behind the scenes, SACT has been working in partnership with key local organisations, including the Barr Community SCIO, Barr Community Shop and Café, and Barr Community Council, to further promote and develop the service. One exciting new initiative is the introduction of two e-bikes for hire at the Barr Community Shop and Café, offering visitors an eco-friendly way to explore the picturesque Barr pathways. This addition is part of a wider effort, in collaboration with Go!Girvan, to attract more visitors from Girvan to Barr, showcasing the area’s outdoor leisure opportunities.
The CB8 service is not just about transport, it’s also about strengthening community ties and offering a lifeline to those who might otherwise struggle to access essential services.
One passenger appreciated the reliability and convenience that the service provides:
The bus is always on time so I can plan my shopping trips.
The route also supports two part-time jobs, both filled by local residents and contributing to the overall well-being of the Barr community.
Since 2018, the Hadyard Hill and Assel Valley wind farms have contributed £57,000 to the service. The collaborative approach, with financial support coming from community benefit funds, Scottish Passenger Transport along with income generated from fares has helped keep the service running smoothly, ensuring it continues to serve as a vital social connection.
Looking ahead, SACT remains committed to ensuring the CB8 bus route thrives. With the recent purchase of a new bus and continued engagement with local residents and organisations, the service is well-positioned to grow. While challenges remain, such as balancing operational costs, the community's enthusiastic support and dedication have proven that together, they can keep this essential service on the road. In a region where public transport options are limited, the CB8 is more than just a bus, it also represents community spirit and resilience.