News / bristol balloon fiesta
Balloon Fiesta shuttle buses axed due to driver shortage
There will be no shuttle buses bringing visitors to the Balloon Fiesta this year due to a national shortage of drivers.
Landing in Ashton Court for 2022, Bristol International Balloon Fiesta is set to return for the first time in three years since the start of the pandemic.
First Bus normally runs a bus service linking the city centre and Ashton Court – but this year none will operate due to lack of staff.
Operations director Ben Hardy said that all other viable options to a shuttle service “have been exhausted”.
Organisers are urging visitors to plan ahead. Instead of travelling via shuttle bus, people are being encouraged to cycle, walk or catch a local bus.
Orange you glad you booked your parking space in advance? ??
The big day is getting closer + we’ll soon be back at @Ashton_Court_ watching this juicy balloon from @mjballooning taking off to the skies.
For more info + parking head here: https://t.co/ktrO8Yu1qb
1/2 pic.twitter.com/1IuTVYM1rJ
— Bristol International Balloon Fiesta (@bristolballoon) July 2, 2022
“We have worked hard over the last few months to look for alternatives to the Fiesta’s shuttle bus service but all viable options have been exhausted,” Hardy said.
“Having tried to find a workable solution in partnership with all the main operators in the area, the lack of bus drivers means that we are unable to provide this travel option.
“We realise this will be difficult news for many who rely on the service, and we are therefore extending the current lower tier pricing for Fiesta parking until July 31 to enable those who would like to use a car instead to do so at the cheaper rate.”
“The roads around the fiesta site are strictly no parking to reduce the impact on local residents and to allow emergency vehicle access around the local area and to the event, so we urge visitors to book car parking in advance.”
Fiesta organisers suggested revellers walk along Festival Way to reach the site in west Bristol, taking around 40 minutes. There will also be bike parking available for cyclists.
The annual event sees four days of mass ascents with over 100 balloons taking off at dusk and dawn. It runs from August 11 to 14.
Main photo: Paul Box
Read more: Balloon Fiesta to return to Ashton Court this summer
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