First buses still not serving Geoffrey Watling Way, Norwich

Since 2020, those living in and around the Geoffrey Watling Way area of NR1 have called on First to bring the 25, 26 and 26A services back to their area.

The services were temporarily suspended because of building work - and then scrapped altogether.

The 26 used to pass through the area but during work on new homes at Canary Quay, buses were temporarily suspended - and First subsequently stopped that service calling in the area completely.

Geoffrey Watling Way (Image: Newsquest)

READ MORE: City street's £6.1m revamp to FINALLY be completed with weeks of disruption expected

But years later - and now with what is thought to be 1,000 more people living in the area following Canary Quay's completion - the service is still yet to be reinstated.

Dr James Hope moved to Geoffrey Watling Way with his wife in 2015 and shared of the "turmoil" he and neighbours have faced for the best part of four years.

"There's been an upshot of people living in this very small place and the nearest bus stop is at Morrisons," the 71-year-old explained.

Dr James Hope, who lives in Geoffrey Watling Way, Norwich (Image: James Hope)

READ MORE: Man charged after police were called to reports of bus altercation

"That may be okay if you're young, but I'm 71 with two metal hips and a metal ankle - it's been pretty tough, particularly for the less mobile.

"There is a genuine cause for concern.

"First Bus were not very receptive when I tried to talk to them about it."

First Bus, which operates the services, did not respond to a request for comment.

The 25 bus toward Riverside (Image: Edward Starr Photographer)

Dr Hope added: "Reinstating this vital service, especially for those over 50, will be a big thing. They're the ones who use the buses more than anyone else.

"And a majority of that will hold a bus pass, which is underused."