New Bus Routes and Easier Travel Arriving in Ely and Ramsey in January 2026

New Bus Routes and Easier Travel Arriving in Ely and Ramsey in January 2026

Bus passengers in Ely and Ramsey are set to benefit from an upgrade to local services, thanks to the Combined Authority’s commitment to protecting and improving vital routes. From 2 January 2026, residents will enjoy more frequent buses, faster connections and simpler, more reliable travel, which makes everyday journeys easier and communities better connected.

On 31 December 2025, the 9A (Ely Circular) 125 (Ely – Little Downham), and 31 (Ramsey – Whittlesey) will be withdrawn. The new services will start on 2 January 2026, as 1 January (New Years Day) is a bank holiday. 

The key changes from 2 January are:

9 (Littleport to Ely to Cambridge): Increased to run every hour between Littleport and Ely. The service will continue to run to Cambridge every two hours, including serving Tesco and connecting with other routes at Ely Market Street.

10 (Ely to Little Downham): Replacing the 9A and 125, this new hourly service provides a clearer route, increased frequency and better coverage through the west of Ely, Ely Leisure Village and Little Downham, including new developments.

X31 (Ramsey to Peterborough): Operating every two hours, this direct service offers quicker journeys for residents in Ramsey, Upwood and Bury and is timed to support travel to Peterborough College, committing back to the original service to Peterborough.

The existing 32 (Peterborough – Whittlesey – Ramsey) will continue to provide direct access between Whittlesey and Ramsey.

Mayor Paul Bristow, took action with the Combined Authority Board to protect vital bus services that were at risk of being withdrawn. This included the 31 between Ramsey, Whittlesey and Peterborough and the 9 between Littleport and Ely. Working closely with operators, the Combined Authority ensured there was no gap in service, keeping these essential bus routes running for residents.

A short-term plan was implemented from 1 September 2025 until 31 December 2025, while work was underway to develop an improved network of services for the areas.

Paul Bristow, Mayor of Cambridgeshire and Peterborough, said:

“Getting and keeping our region moving is crucial. If you’re a resident in Ramsey, you need a bus service to get to Peterborough. That’s what the new X31 bus is all about.

If you’re a student in Little Downham, you need a route to get to College in Ely. With the new 10 service, you can.

Many of these connectivity issues are being examined by my independent review, but I wasn’t prepared to leave people stranded. I’m delighted that the new year means new buses.”

These changes may affect the way some residents travel, and passengers are encouraged to check the updated routes and timetables before making their journey.

More details on timetables and how the changes may affect journeys can be found here:  https://transport.cambridgeshirepeterborough-ca.gov.uk/buses/bus-route-changes/