TRANSPORT in and around Bude is getting a refresh thanks local pilots and upgrades.

Future Coast Bude, has been working to improve facilities for those travelling in and around Bude, be it via public transport or in their own cars.

The organisation, a Defra-funded project, led by Cornwall Council, which is part of the £200-million Flood and Coastal Innovation Programmes, managed by the Environment Agency, has upgraded the town’s parking facilities with the installation of a new sign on the A39, before southbound traffic reaches the Hillhead roundabout.

This sign has been paid for by Future Coast Bude, and has come as a direct result of a recommendation from the Town Vision, as well as a huge amount of feedback from the public following the park and ride pilot last year.

The sign is updated once a minute and provides information on how many spaces there are available at Crooklet’s, Summerleaze and The Crescent car park. Counters have been installed in these Cornwall Council owned car parks. When the Park and Ride is running, the screen will switch over to promote the Park and Ride service.

However, for those looking to avoid parking in the town all together, the organisation has announced the return of the town’s Park and Ride pilot scheme.

The scheme is returning following a successful 2025 season and aims to give visitors an easier way to park and enjoy more time in Bude.

Running from Saturday July 18, until Monday, August 31, the service hopes to offer a simple and affordable way to access the town centre and beaches during the busy summer season.

The service is set to run every 20 minutes between 8am and 7pm, seven days a week and will be stoping at both The Strand and Crooklets.

Hoping to provide a service for those enjoying the town’s beaches, beach equipment and dogs will both be welcome on board.

Commenting on the scheme, a spokesperson from Future Coast Bude said: “Based on feedback from last year, the buses will be starting earlier, at 8am. This will allow them to be used by people working in the town. They will run every 20 minutes, 7 days a week, including the August Bank Holiday weekend. The buses will run later on Bank Holiday Monday to support the Lifeboat Day.

“The project is working with the community to explore how Bude can respond and adapt to the long-term challenges of coastal change and climate change, including increasing pressure on roads, parking and public spaces during busy periods.

“The Park and Ride pilot is funded through Future Coast Bude and is being trialled during the summer season to explore whether alternative parking and transport options could help reduce congestion and pressure on town centre car parks at peak times.

“The idea was identified through the Bude Town Team Town Vision work, which highlighted the need to improve how people move around Bude during busy visitor periods while supporting a more resilient future for the town.”