DESPITE problems faced by other bus routes, one is claiming a ‘consistent increase in passengers’.
The Centrebus number 46 service runs between Luton and Hemel Hempstead, passing through Redbourn, Markyate and Flamstead.
The company has run the hourly service for the last four years and says a bevy of improvements including a more frequent timetable, group discounts, and better livery have boosted its popularity.
Passenger figures show a 36 per cent increase throughout 2010 and another 43 per cent increase in 2011.
The company spent £200,000 last year on two larger buses to cope with the boom.
Centrebus spokesman Gemma Holt said: “We are delighted by the popularity of the 46.
“Although it is natural to see fluctuations in passenger numbers on all services, it is unusual to see them increase steadily for this length of time and to this extent.”