Waterford City and County Council says there has been no decision to postpone the rollout of BusConnects in the city until 2028.

The timeline for the major redesign of Waterford’s bus network was raised during September’s Plenary meeting in Dungarvan.

Cllr. Declan Barry sought clarity on suggestions that the rollout had been pushed back, and questioned when councillors had been informed of any change to the programme.

Responding at the meeting, Director of Roads Gabriel Hynes said there had been no decision to postpone BusConnects Waterford until 2028.

He said work with the National Transport Authority is continuing.

Work on infrastructure associated with the network, including bus stops, shelters and terminals, is expected to progress, while councillors are also due to engage with the NTA on the plans.

Council management said it remains hopeful that the rollout of services can begin in early 2027.

BusConnects will involve a major redesign and expansion of Waterford’s urban bus network, with new routes, increased frequencies and longer operating hours planned.

The redesigned network is expected to approximately double the level of bus service provided across Waterford’s Public Service Obligation network.

The National Transport Authority has previously stated that implementation of the redesigned Waterford network is due to commence in 2027, subject to funding and resources.

The plans form part of wider efforts to expand public transport capacity across Waterford city.