Commuters in the West Midlands have received a welcome boost with the announcement of a brand new bus service set to improve access to a major Birmingham hospital.
Route and Service Details
The new number 98 bus, operated by Diamond Buses, will begin running from January 4, 2026. This Monday to Saturday service will provide a crucial link from Solihull town centre directly to Heartlands Hospital in Bordesley Green.
The route will travel through the areas of Lyndon, Sheldon, and Garrett's Green, specifically turning down Marcot Road and passing by the Wheatsheaf. This new service effectively replaces the previous National Express 73 service but will operate on an altered route through Lyndon and Olton.
Solving Local Transport Gaps
The introduction of the 98 service comes after successful campaigning by local councillor Kathryn Thomas. Councillor Thomas had been consulting with Transport for the West Midlands on behalf of residents living on Marcot Road and Wichnor Road who had been left without a bus service.
She expressed her delight at the news, stating it was "absolutely brilliant news for bus users in Lyndon." The service will restore a vital transport link for residents on Marcot Road and parts of Wagon Lane, who previously lacked a direct connection.
Improved Frequency for Commuters
A significant benefit of the new route is the improved frequency for passengers. When combined with the existing number 99 service, which follows the same initial route from Solihull through Lyndon, passengers in parts of Lyndon served by both buses will see a much-improved service.
Between 9am and 4:30pm, Monday to Saturday, buses will now arrive every 15 minutes. During the peak travel times of 7am-9am and 4:30pm-7:30pm, the frequency will be every 20 minutes. It is important to note that the 98 service will not run on Sundays, during which the 99 will continue to provide an hourly service.
This new route not only reconnects communities but also provides a direct bus link to Heartlands Hospital for residents in parts of Lyndon that previously did not have one, marking a substantial improvement in local public transport infrastructure.
