West Midlands bus route 21

Introduction

In November 1940, route 21 was introduced to replace tram route 5 to Bell Green following its abandonment due to air raid damage.^[1] The route initially operated between Greyfriars Green and Old Church Road via Hertford Street, Broadgate, Trinity Street, Hales Street and Stoney Stanton Road. It was extended to Coventry railway station in January 1941, before being moved to Broadway in August 1951.^[1] Further extensions followed, reaching Hall Green Road and Wood End in June 1957, and later Shilton Cross Road by 1962. In June 1962, the route was altered to operate via The Burges and Jesson Street due to new one-way systems.^[1]

In 1985, the bus route became a Cross City route that replaced the former bus route 22, going to Willenhall.^[2]

Modern era

The bus route formerly used Mercedes 0405 articulated buses, however these were retired in 20 March 2018.^[2][3] Enviro 400's were also used on the route, though the whole fleet has now been replaced with the newer Enviro 400 EV's.^[4][5]

Crime

According to Coventry Live reports, route 21 was the location for offences including nine thefts and three counts of criminal damage reported between January and September 2024.^[6]

Parliament coverage

A UK Parliament publication mentions that Route 21 serves socially excluded areas.^[7]