A new bus service has started linking the Luke’s Lane estate with the Hebburn quay area and Hebburn town centre.
The 530 will run every 30 minutes and is being funded by Nexus for a six month trial period.
Local Councillors who worked with Nexus to set up the route are urging local people to use the route and prove it is needed.
Cllr Tom Hanson, a South Tyneside Councillor and Vice Chairman of the Tyne and Wear Integrated Transport Authority, said: “The 530 bus creates new local links for Hebburn.
“The route connects Luke’s Lane with medical centres at Campbell Park and Glen Street, as well as Metro, the Community Association and council offices.”
Cllr Jim Sewell, Ward Councillor for Monkton, said: “We have pressed for this new bus route on behalf of local people and we are sure many will welcome the news the 530 is starting service.”
Cllr Joe Abbott, Ward Councillor for Hebburn North, added: “The 530 fills an important gap in the South Tyneside Better Bus network, and I am delighted to see its make its first trips.”
John Usher, Head of Social Inclusion for Nexus, said: “When we launched the Better Bus Network in June we said we would review it where residents made suggestions.
“Local people called for this new link in Hebburn and we have provided it for six months to see how well it is used.”
The 530 will run from 7am to 7pm on a route from Morecambe Parade and Marine Drive via Campbell Park Road, Hebburn Civic Centre, Victoria Road East, Black Road, Argyle Street, Hebburn Community Association, Hebburn Metro and Glen Street Medical Centre.
At Glen Street there is no bus stop – passengers should clearly indicate to the driver and the bus will pick you up at any safe place on request.