New local link bus route in Wicklow moves a step closer
The Wicklow PeopleThe National Transport Authority (NTA) has confirmed the procurement process for the promised local-link bus service between Glendalough to Bray is now complete.
The Route 199 service was due to commence on September 21, 2025 following an extensive public consultation process, which saw strong engagement from communities across Wicklow, with 249 submissions made.
The service was widely viewed as a vital transport link for rural and commuter communities alike. The proposed service was to provide five return journeys a day from Monday to Friday.
According to Cllr Shane Langrell, confirmation was received earlier this year that Nolan Coaches had been awarded the contract to operate the route. In August 2025, the company publicly advertised for a driver for the service, further reinforcing expectations that the route would go live as planned.
Speaking following this latest development Fine Gael Deputy Edward Timmins said the Department of Transport and the NTA are currently engaging in relation to funding the service.
“The commencement date is still subject to confirmation of funding so a precise date cannot be provided at this time. While this represents some progress it is frustrating that this new service is taking longer than expected. I will continue to campaign and work with my Councillor Colleague Shane Langrell to ensure this happens.”
Highlighting the real-world consequences of the delay, particularly for rural areas, Cllr Langrell said communities are missing out.
“This route was meant to provide access to jobs, education, healthcare, and social connection for communities in Glendalough, Laragh, Annamoe, Roundwood, Kilmacanogue, and surrounding local areas, right through to Bray. These communities were clear that they would use this service, and many are now left without any viable public transport alternative.”
He also warned that the failure to deliver the service risks undermining future public consultations.
“If communities believe their input can simply be ignored, it damages confidence in the entire process,” he said.
He is now calling on the NTA to urgently engage with local representatives, provide a clear explanation for the delay, and confirm when the Route 199 service will finally commence.
"I will continue to pursue this matter until communities receive the answers and service they were promised.”
The delay in rolling out this route has been highlighted despite an in increase in funding over recent years in local link rural bus services. In Carlow, Kilkenny and Wicklow, funding increased by 46pc between 2023 and 2024 to more than €3.5 million. The passenger numbers on these routes in counties Carlow, Kilkenny and Wicklow increased by 61pc from 2023 to 2024.