THE WEYMOUTH to Portland bus service is now stopping outside Portland Lidl and the Sailing Academy.

The Number One service has been calling at a new Hamm Beach Road bus stop since Sunday, following a long-awaited change to the route.

Residents have been campaigning for the change since the German budget supermarket chain opened a new store on Portland in November 2019. Due to its location near the Portland Beach Road, the supermarket was frustratingly out of reach for Portland and Wyke Regis residents without a car - particularly those with mobility issues - despite being on their doorstep.

Now bus operator First Wessex has said its Number One buses will serve the newly created Hamm Beach Road bus stop every day between 9am until 6pm.

Marc Reddy, managing director at First Wessex, said: “We’re pleased to announce that First Wessex Service 1 is now serving Hamm Beach Road for easy access to the recently opened Lidl and the National Sailing Academy. We know there was strong community support for this particular route change, and we hope that many people will use it.

"Initially our Service 1 will serve this new bus stop between the hours of 9am and 6pm Monday to Sundays. We have been liaising with Dorset Council who have installed bus shelters in both directions for increased customer convenience.”

Mayor of Portland cllr Sandy West welcomed the changes.

She said: "I think it's excellent - it makes sense (for the bus to stop at Lidl) and will be good for shoppers and for business, it's a shame it took such a long time for it to happen as it's a really good idea. I think people will use it and would imagine the extra stop will only add five minutes on the journey.

"A lot of people don't have cars - I don't have one - and it's a bit of a walk, especially with shopping, which is a bit off-putting - especially for older people or those with children.

"I'm really pleased and will be getting the bus to Lidl myself soon."