Shropshire Council launches on-demand bus service

Shropshire Council has launched Shropshire Connect On-Demand, an on-demand bus service that will replace two existing bus routes and provide links to new residential developments not currently served by public transport.

Under the new service, which will operate from 7.30am to 6.30pm Monday to Saturday, people will be able to book a journey by app or phone, choosing where they wish to be picked up, and when, and where they want to be dropped off.

Single journeys will cost £2 for passengers over 19, £1.50 for those aged five to 19, with under-fives travelling for free. Concessionary passes, and school bus passes, will be accepted.

A Sigma 7 16-seat electric bus will operate in urban areas – the first fully electric bus operating in Shropshire, while smaller low-emission diesel vehicles will operate in rural areas as they are better able to navigate lanes and roads less suited for larger buses.

Ian Nellins, Shropshire Council’s cabinet member with responsibility for public transport, said, “The start of our new on-demand service is part of Shropshire Council’s commitment to reinvigorate public transport in Shropshire and I’m delighted that the new Shropshire Connect On-Demand buses will soon be hitting the roads.

“For many residents in Shropshire’s vast rural areas there are no local transport services to get them to work, leisure activities, medical appointments or college. This service strives to change that and provide a crucial link for residents requiring affordable access to essential services.​”

A trial period – during which passengers will be offered a free ride – will run alongside the existing 544 and 546 services until the first week of December, when it is expected to fully phase out the two scheduled services.