Hundreds of First Bus jobs at risk as it quits South West county

Hundreds of First Bus jobs at risk as it quits South West county View Image

Hundreds of jobs are under threat as First Bus announces its intention to cease all operations in a South West county.

The transport company, which is a major bus operator in Bristol, Somerset and the wider West of England, revealed that its entire Cornwall network will shut down following the final service on Saturday, February 14, 2026.

The move comes as a result of "ongoing financial challenges" and a dramatic decline in passenger numbers. First Bus South, which oversees Cornwall services, currently runs 14 routes using a fleet of 85 buses.

The firm confirmed that 275 positions are in jeopardy due to the forthcoming closure. First stated it is collaborating with all affected staff to secure alternative p