The axed night service on one of Norwich's major bus routes could be revived - with talks between council bosses and the University of East Anglia about bringing it back.

First buses used to run services into the early hours on the number 25 bus connecting the city centre to the UEA.

However, over the years, the service has been scaled back and it no longer runs after midnight.

Eastern Daily Press: Norwich Railway StationNorwich Railway Station

At the moment, the last bus from Norwich Railway Station to the university leaves at 11.45pm on weekdays and Saturdays and 10 minutes earlier on Sundays.

The last bus from the UEA into the city is at 11.40pm on weekdays and Saturdays and at 11.10am on Sundays.

Eastern Daily Press: The night bus serving the UEA could be revivedThe night bus serving the UEA could be revived (Image: Newsquest)

But a spokesperson for the county council confirmed: "Norfolk County Council is in early discussions with the UEA about the introduction of a night bus service to the campus and has agreed to assist with funding a trial.

"As our funding is only short term any service after the trial would have to be financially sustainable or fully funded by the UEA or other sources."

Eastern Daily Press: Brian Watkins, leader of the Liberal Democrat group at Norfolk County CouncilBrian Watkins, leader of the Liberal Democrat group at Norfolk County Council (Image: Liberal Democrats)

A UEA spokesman said: “We are regularly in discussions with First bus about how their routes and timetables can best suit those commuting onto our campus, including on a potential night bus service, and we will update our community should any change be made to the current travel provision."

Luke Johnson, UEA Students' Union activities and opportunities officer, said the night bus project has "significant support" and would improve safety for students.

Brian Watkins, leader of the Liberal Democrat group at County Hall, who represents the Eaton ward the 25 passes through, called for the authority to use a slice of almost £50m the government had given it to improve buses.

ABC Taxis, 5 Star Taxis and Courtesy Taxis are working with the UEA Students' Union on a Safe Rides programme.

Through that scheme, students can provide their student number and name when booking taxis, with fares initially invoiced to the Students’ Union, with the student paying later.