Willenhall Shuttle Keeps Riders Moving During Road Work
National Express West Midlands runs 529E shuttle Feb 16-20 due to Somerford Place closure
Willenhall 529E Shuttle Runs Feb 16-20
Bus riders in Willenhall will need to use a temporary shuttle service next week as road work forces a route change. National Express West Midlands will operate the 529E shuttle from Monday, Feb. 16, through Friday, Feb. 20, while Somerford Place remains closed to traffic. The five-day shuttle replaces portions of the regular 529 route that can't operate during the closure.
Road Closure Prompts Service Adjustment
The Somerford Place closure requires the regular 529 service to detour around the affected area, creating gaps in coverage for some riders. Transit officials said the temporary shuttle was designed to maintain connections for passengers who'd otherwise lose direct service during the closure. The agency didn't specify what type of road work is causing the closure or whether it's related to utility repairs, street maintenance, or other infrastructure projects. Road closures typically require transit agencies to implement temporary service changes with little advance notice.
Shuttle Operates During Weekday Closure
The 529E shuttle will run only during the five weekdays when Somerford Place is closed, officials said. Specific details about shuttle frequency, exact stop locations, and operating hours weren't available by publication time. The agency said the shuttle is designed to serve areas that lose direct access when the regular 529 route takes its detour. Transit officials didn't say whether the shuttle will match the regular route's frequency or operate on a modified schedule.
Service Returns to Normal Feb. 21
The temporary shuttle arrangement ends when Somerford Place reopens, which officials expect to happen after Friday, Feb. 20. Regular 529 service should resume its normal route by Saturday, Feb. 21, though the agency didn't confirm whether the road will definitely reopen on schedule. Officials said they'll notify riders if the closure extends beyond the planned five days.
Riders Should Plan for Temporary Changes
Passengers who regularly use the 529 route near Somerford Place should allow extra travel time during the five-day closure period. Officials said riders can check for real-time updates about the shuttle service and any schedule changes. Moovit provides current route information and service alerts for National Express West Midlands buses throughout the region.
