Kilkenny City Bus Services Boosted with 12% Increase in Weekly Routes

The National Transport Authority (NTA) in collaboration with City Direct, has announced a significant enhancement to the Kilkenny City Bus Service, set to take effect from next week. This increase in public transport for the city will bring a 12% increase in service levels and 104 additional weekly services introduced across the KK1 and KK2 routes.

The KK1 and KK2 routes will each benefit from 26 new weekly return services. Weekday commuters will see the most notable improvements, with KK1 gaining 17 extra return trips and KK2 adding 20. Weekend services are also being included, with both routes receiving additional journeys on Saturdays and Sundays.

Since their launch in 2019, the KK1 and KK2 services have carried over 1.4 million passengers, with annual passenger numbers rising from 107,000 in 2020 to over 404,000 in 2024. With nearly 150,000 passengers already recorded in 2025, the expanded service is a direct response to increasing demand.

John Nott, Head of Public Transport Service Planning at the NTA, commented:
“These additional 104 weekly services will provide more flexibility, greater frequency, and improved connectivity for the people of Kilkenny. Whether it’s commuting to work, getting to school or college, or simply accessing local shops and amenities, these enhancements are about making everyday journeys easier and more sustainable.”

Jonathan McDaid, Operations Director at City Direct Bus Ltd, added:
“We are delighted to be working alongside the NTA in the expansion of the Kilkenny City Bus Network. These additional services will be very beneficial and improve connectivity for the people of Kilkenny to all types of public transport.”