Local Link route from Offaly to Athlone extended for several weeks

The Local Link bus service serving Stradbally, Portlaoise, Tullamore and Athlone – which was due to cease this Friday, May 8 – will continue to operate until the end of the month, it has been confirmed.

There was much concern locally when it was initially announced that route 10062 would discontinue on May 8.

The route is a popular mode of transport with third-level students from Offaly studying at TUS Athlone, and the concern was that many of those students would be left short of transport heading into a busy period for exams and assessments.

The route is also used regularly by students attending Laois/Offaly Education Training Board campuses in Tullamore and Portlaoise.

News of the decision to alter its cessation date comes after Fine Gael TD for Offaly, John Clendennen, working on concerns on behalf of constituents, made successful representation to the National Transport Authority (NTA) and Local Link Laois-Offaly.

Deputy Clendennen said that the original cessation date 'did not align' with the academic calendars of students.

“Students relying on this service for exams and final assessments, which continue through to the end of May, faced significant transport challenges,” he said.

“This extension ensures that students will now have a viable means of transport during the most critical academic period. I am delighted the NTA and Local Link Laois-Offaly have responded positively to my representation. This extension is crucial for our local students and their families. The extended operation will alleviate unnecessary stress ensuring students can focus on exams. I remain committed to advocating for robust and responsive public transport services that meet the needs of the community,“ said Deputy Clendennen.