On-Demand Bus Services Launching in Rutland

On-Demand Bus Services Launching in Rutland

Residents of Rutland are gearing up for a significant upgrade to their public transport network, with the first phase of new on-demand bus services set to roll out in the northwest of the county on Monday, March 31st, 2025. This innovative approach, spearheaded by Rutland County Council, promises greater flexibility and accessibility for commuters and leisure travelers alike.   

The new service, aptly named Callconnect, will introduce smaller, minibus-style vehicles to complement existing fixed-route bus services. This hybrid model aims to bridge the gap in areas where traditional bus routes may be less frequent or non-existent. Passengers will be able to conveniently book their journeys using a dedicated smartphone app or by phone, with as little as one hour's notice, subject to availability. Existing bus stops will serve as the designated pick-up and drop-off points, ensuring familiarity for regular bus users.   

To encourage adoption and allow residents to experience the benefits firsthand, Rutland County Council is offering completely free travel on the Callconnect service for the first three months. Even after this initial period, those with a valid bus pass will continue to enjoy free travel on these on-demand services.   

Alongside the introduction of Callconnect, some adjustments are being made to existing routes. From March 31st, the current R2 bus service will be replaced by a new RZ1 service. This new route will operate as a fixed service during peak times, catering to the morning and evening rush, before transitioning to the on-demand Callconnect model for the rest of the day. The well-established R1 service, connecting Melton Mowbray, Oakham, Uppingham, and Corby, will continue to operate as normal. Additionally, residents will still have access to Leicestershire County Council’s LC1 bus service, which runs between Oakham and Melton, with a convenient stop at Gates Garden Centre.   

The initial launch of the on-demand Callconnect service will cover a wide range of communities in Rutland and Melton, including:

Ashwell

Barleythorpe

Barrow

Brentingby

Burley

Clipsham   

Cottesmore

Edmondthorpe

Exton

Greetham   

Langham

Market Overton

Melton Mowbray

Oakham

Saxby

Stretton

Teigh

Thistleton

Whissendine

Wyfordby

Wymondham

For residents in other parts of Rutland, regular bus services will continue as usual for now. The council has plans to expand the on-demand service to provide full coverage across the entire county by August 2025.

The Callconnect service will operate from 7 am to 7 pm, Monday to Friday, and from 8 am to 6 pm on Saturdays. The service areas have been carefully planned to allow for some overlap, ensuring maximum coverage and connectivity for passengers reaching their desired destinations. For those eager to plan ahead, pre-booking for Callconnect journeys in the northwest of the county is already open.   

To make navigating the new bus network as easy as possible, Rutland County Council has launched a brand-new website: www.rutlandbuses.info. This user-friendly platform will serve as a central hub for all information related to local bus services, including detailed information about the Callconnect service.   

For individuals who prefer to book over the phone or lack internet access, the Callconnect service can also be booked by calling 0345 234 3344. Operators will be available to assist with bookings and inquiries from 7 am to 7 pm, Monday to Friday, and 8 am to 6 pm on Saturdays.   

Councillor Christine Wise, Cabinet Member for Transport, Environment and Communities, expressed her enthusiasm for the new initiative, stating, "This is an important and exciting change for bus users in Rutland, and for Rutland County Council. Our new Rutland Buses website provides residents with a single point of information about the County’s new bus network, including the on-demand services that will be available to communities between Oakham and Melton from the start of next week. We know this is a big change and we’ll continue to promote and advertise the new network over the coming months, to make sure everyone fully understands these changes."   

She further highlighted the benefits of the new system, adding, "It is a different way to travel and has so many benefits. The use of these smaller vehicles, operating flexible routes in tandem with traditional bus services, means that we can increase access to public transport in areas of the County that have not previously had access to a bus of any kind. These changes are also greener for the environment and much more cost-effective. We hope people will get on board and give the new service a try.”

Recognising that not all residents have access to the internet, Rutland County Council is also ensuring that information is available in paper format. Printed bus timetables and information will be updated at all bus stops across the county and will be available for collection from Council offices, libraries, and post offices.

The launch of the on-demand Callconnect service marks a significant step forward in enhancing public transport in Rutland. By offering a flexible and accessible alternative, Rutland County Council is aiming to improve connectivity, reduce reliance on private vehicles, and create a more sustainable and convenient transport system for all its residents.