First Bus is changing its timetables for services across Southend-on-Sea, Essex, starting on Sunday, 22 February 2026. The operator says the adjustments are intended to improve punctuality and reliability and align with wider timetable coordination across the county.
The changes will focus on route 3A (Leigh-on-Sea–Southend) and routes 21/21S (Southend–Canvey), which include stops serving Southend University Hospital (Prittlewell Chase). Passengers should expect revised departure times and possible frequency changes that may affect journeys to work, school and hospital appointments.
These updates take effect on a timetable change date set under the Enhanced Partnership arrangements coordinated by Essex County Council (Travel Essex) with local bus operators. Travel Essex publishes a calendar of agreed change windows to help avoid uncoordinated service amendments across the network.
Passengers can find the new timetables on the First Bus Essex ‘Routes and maps’ via the First Bus mobile app and other journey‑planning apps. Travel Essex has also published a summary PDF of forthcoming Southend changes to help people plan in advance.
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