Passengers can now enjoy easier access to Southsea seafront, Castle Road and key destinations across the city following the opening of new bus stops on Southsea Terrace as part of Portsmouth City Council’s Bus Service Improvement Plan (BSIP).

The new stops, served by Stagecoach’s Service 18, fill a long-standing gap between Clarence Pier and St Jude’s Church. The route provides an important connection between the Isle of Wight ferry terminal and Queen Alexandra Hospital, with buses running up to every 20 minutes.

The improvements also make it easier for residents and visitors to reach Castle Road’s independent shops, galleries, cafés and community events. The new stops support recent investment in the area, which has transformed the street with new planting, seating and improved public spaces, creating a more welcoming environment for residents, businesses and visitors alike.

The scheme was delivered by Portsmouth City Council and funded through the Department for Transport’s Bus Service Improvement Plan programme. The new stops have been designed to improve accessibility and make bus travel a more convenient option for people travelling to and from the area.

Councillor Peter Candlish, Cabinet Member for Transport at Portsmouth City Council, said: “These new bus stops may be a small change, but they will make a big difference. They improve links to Southsea Seafront, Clarence Pier, South Parade Pier, Castle Road and Queen Alexandra Hospital, making it easier for residents and visitors to travel by bus to some of Portsmouth’s most popular destinations.

“The scheme is another example of how we’re investing in better bus services and infrastructure across the city. It also creates a direct bus connection between the north of the city and the seafront, helping people reach key destinations without having to change buses.

“Bus journeys in Portsmouth have increased by more than 50 per cent over the last three years, with more than a million passenger journeys now being made every month. I’m delighted more and more people now see the bus as their best option for local travel.”

Rob Vince, Business Development Manager, Stagecoach South, said: “We’re pleased to be working in partnership with Portsmouth City Council to introduce these new bus stops on Southsea Terrace for Service 18, with buses up to every 20 minutes. This improvement will make it easier for customers to access one of Southsea’s most popular and distinctive destinations, including the independent shops, Art Galleries, cafés and community events that make Castle Road such a vibrant part of the city.

“Providing convenient and accessible public transport links is an important part of connecting communities and supporting local businesses. We’re delighted that these new stops will help more people enjoy everything the area has to offer.”

The Southsea Terrace improvements form part of a wider programme of investment in Portsmouth’s bus network, helping to make public transport more accessible, reliable and attractive for residents and visitors alike.

For more information about Portsmouth’s Bus Service Improvement Plan, visit https://travel.portsmouth.gov.uk/bsip/.