Residents in Berwickshire, Kelso and Northumberland will soon benefit from improved public transport links, as two new cross border bus services launch in the area on Monday 2 March 2026.
The service, which will be delivered jointly with Northumberland County Council, sees the two new services 34 and 34A replace the current 34 service (Duns – Coldstream) and 266 service (Wooler – Berwick-upon-Tweed) routes, bringing improved travel options for rural communities on both sides of the Border.
Service changes
The changes made to services will now mean that Service 34 will run between Duns and Kelso via Coldstream, with four journeys on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. Service 34A will run between Wooler and Kelso via Coldstream, with four journeys on Tuesdays and Thursdays increasing to six on Saturdays.
The joint initiative will enhance transport links for residents in Duns, Wooler, Coldstream, Kelso, and surrounding communities. Both routes will connect with Borders Bus service 67 in Coldstream and Kelso, providing onward travel opportunities to Berwick-upon-Tweed and Galashiels, as well as access to Coldstream Health Centre.
Both Councils have welcomed the development as a practical example of cross-border co-operation, with officers bringing together resources and planning to deliver sustainable transport and real benefits for local people.
Councillor Jenny Linehan, Executive Member for Environment, Sustainability and Transport:
“We are delighted to be launching these new bus services in our communities. Not only will they enhance transport links for residents in this area but will also provide onward travel opportunities for those who live or work in the area, as well as those visiting.”
Councillor Richard Wearmouth, Northumberland County Council Cabinet Member with responsibility for public transport:
“It's excellent news that we’re getting more improved bus services in our county, and a great example of cross-border working. We know how important reliable and regular bus services are, particularly in our more rural communities, and we're confident these new routes will be well received."
This is a positive step forward for connectivity in the region and a clear demonstration of what can be achieved when councils collaborate with a shared ambition to support their communities.