National Express has announced that it will withdraw its scheduled coach services between Kent and London, following a review of passenger demand, operating costs and long-term viability.
The 007 service (Dover – Folkestone – Canterbury – London) and the 022 service (Ramsgate – Margate – Canterbury – London) will terminate from 7 December 2026.
Declining passenger demand and rising operating costs driven by escalating fuel prices mean the services are no longer commercially sustainable.
The decision highlights the challenges facing scheduled coach services in maintaining affordable connections, particularly on routes where passenger demand is insufficient to cover operating costs. As a commercial operator, National Express does not receive public subsidy, unlike rail or local bus services, making services entirely dependent on passenger revenue to remain viable.
Neil Collins, Director of Coach Network Planning at National Express, said:
“We continually review our national network to ensure we deliver services in response to customer demand and at an affordable price. We recognise the importance of these services to local communities and understand that their withdrawal will be disappointing for passengers.
“We have carefully considered the options available, but with rising operating costs and declining passenger demand, these routes are no longer commercially viable and we must make responsible decisions to protect our business and the wider coach network.”
Customers with advance tickets for travel beyond 7 December 2026 will be proactively contacted about the changes and arrange refunds, where applicable.
