The TFI Local Link Kildare South Dublin 883 Route brings passengers from Athy to Newbridge via Kildare Town and return. In late 2020 we decided to conduct a survey on this popular route to find out more about how our passengers used this service and we would like to share some of that information with you.

New rural bus service

In 2018 the service commenced with three trips in each direction. As demand grew evening services were added the following year. By early 2020 the passenger growth was increased by 700% proving the demand and success of this particular route.

Passenger Opinion

In November 2020 TFI Local Link Kildare South Dublin conducted a survey amongst regular passengers to get their feedback on the service. Some of the key findings were:
• Most passengers used the service weekly, so were accessing the service regularly.
• Most journeys were for retail although this was followed closely by social needs. People use the service to visit family and friends in other areas which are accessible with our service.
• Some passengers were also using the bus service to connect with trains in bigger towns such as Athy, Kildare and Newbridge.

We then asked passengers to comment on the service and here is a selection of the responses we received:

“We have lost so many bus services times in the last few years. The Local Link allows us to get to near towns for shopping etc., and even helps during times when travelling and going to the airport. Very easy to connect to the green bus”.

“We live in a rural community and we depend on this service for ourselves and to give the younger members some independence.”

“It gets me to places I need to go for example to see my grandparents in Kilberry, to Kildare village for work, to Newbridge for shopping experience and retail.”

“It allows my children some independence as they are able to go to shops, cinema or meet friends.”

“Connects rural residents with no other means of transport to large towns for essential items.”

“It’s the only public transport that comes through our village, its reliable and good value.”

We would like to thank all who responded to our survey, your comments help us understand the need for our service in your area and gives us valuable data to enable us to plan other routes and services for the future.