Reading Buses have today announced that they are coming to the rescue of residents of Binfield Heath and Dunsden Green by running buses into those areas following news that newcomer Carousel Buses have announced their withdrawal from the area weeks after Arriva ended operation.

From Monday September 2, four to five journeys a day on Reading Buses aqua 28 route between Reading and Henley-on-Thames will divert to serve Dunsden Green and Binfield Heath following a tendering process undertaken by Oxfordshire County Council.

There are other minor changes to the overall aqua 28 timetable, which provides the fastest and most regular connection between Reading, Caversham, Shiplake and Henley, but these are just to take into account these new diverted journeys as well as generally improve timekeeping.

Robert Williams, Chief Executive Officer said “We are aware that bus users in these areas have had a difficult time, and are pleased to be working with Oxfordshire County Council to help maintain services to these communities.

"We have tried to replicate the existing times as far as our aqua 28 timetable will allow, and hope that this won’t cause too much inconvenience to the rest of our customers who are already flocking to the service in droves.

"We also hope that these journeys are used and welcome feedback from residents as to timings that work better for the community.”

Robert also explained how the aqua 28 provides an easier option than the alternatives between Reading and Henley; “The bus takes around 40-45 minutes end-to-end to get between the towns, or less if travelling from places along the route like Caversham.

You can travel for just £4 return on our bus and there are also day tickets and season passes available for onward journeys on our network of buses in Reading – which is perfect for people who need to go to points of interest such as the University or the Hospital.

The Reading Buses aqua 28 service uses bio-methane fuelled buses, which reduce overall carbon emissions by up to 84% compared to an equivalent diesel bus.

Buses will leave Binfield Heath towards Reading at 7.37 am, 9.30 am, 12.34 pm and 6.45 pm Mondays – Fridays and at 7.29 am, 10.29 am, 1.34 pm and 5.34 pm on Saturdays. Buses will leave Binfield Heath towards Henley at 7.22 am, 8.15 am, 9.45 am, 2.25 pm and 6.25 pm Mondays – Fridays and 9.20 am, 11.25 am, 1.25 pm and 6.25 pm on Saturdays.