Rutland County Hits the Road: Unveiling the Future of Local Transport
Rutland County Council is embarking on a proactive campaign to introduce its innovative new on-demand bus service, set to revolutionise public transport in the region. With the first phase launching on March 31, 2025, the council is taking to the streets this month with a series of roadshow events designed to educate and engage residents.
The council’s ambitious Bus Service Improvement Plan (BSIP) aims to enhance accessibility and sustainability within the local transport network. A key component of this plan is the introduction of a phased on-demand minibus service, working in tandem with traditional fixed-route buses. This will ultimately create a network of three zones, connecting rural villages to major bus routes and facilitating onward travel to larger destinations.
Partnering with Lincolnshire’s Callconnect, the new service will initially be free for the first three months, encouraging residents to experience the convenience of on-demand travel. Passengers will be able to book journeys via the Callconnect smartphone app or by phone, with as little as one hour's notice. The service will utilise existing bus stops as pick-up and drop-off points, ensuring familiarity and ease of use.
The inaugural phase, launching in March 2025, will cover the northeast of the county, linking Oakham and Melton. To prepare residents for this change, the council is hosting a series of roadshow events across key locations, including Market Overton, Greetham, Cottesmore, and Wymondham.
These events will provide a unique opportunity for residents to:
See the new on-demand minibuses up close: Giving them a tangible understanding of the service.
Learn how to use the Callconnect booking system: Ensuring they are equipped to utilise the service effectively.
Ask questions and receive clarification: Addressing any concerns or queries about the new transport network.
Obtain information on the new RZ1 fixed route: Which will replace the current R2, and understand how it will work in conjunction with the DRT.
Councillor Christine Wise, Cabinet Member for Transport, Environment and Communities, emphasised the importance of these events, stating, “These roadshow events will be a great way for people to learn more about how their local transport network is changing, as well as seeing our new vehicles and asking any questions they may have.”
The council has released a detailed schedule of the roadshow events, ensuring accessibility for residents across the targeted areas. Notably, council officers will be present at Oakham Library, various village bus stops, and community centres.
Friday 7 March
• Oakham Library, 9.00am to 12.00pm
Tuesday 11 March
• Cottesmore (between The Sun Inn and village shop), 9.30am to 10.30am
• Exton Garden Road bus stop, 11.00am to 12.00pm
• Stretton bus stop, 1.00pm to 1.30pm
• Clipsham bus shelter, 2.00pm to 2.30pm
Thursday 13 March
• Greetham Community Centre, 10.00am to 12.00pm
• Market Overton bus shelter (near The Black Bull Pub), 1.00pm to 2.00pm
• Wymondham (Melton Road bus stop), 2.30pm to 3.30pm
Saturday 15 March
• Thistleton Church Hall, 10.30am to 12.00pm
Wednesday 19 March
• Oakham Library, 1.30 to 4.30pm
For those unable to attend the roadshows, the council has pledged to make all relevant information available online. Furthermore, they have committed to continued engagement as the on-demand service expands to cover the rest of the county later in the summer.
This initiative by Rutland County Council demonstrates a commitment to improving rural connectivity and providing sustainable transport solutions for its residents. By combining fixed-route services with flexible, on-demand options, the council is paving the way for a more accessible and efficient public transport network.
For further information, residents are encouraged to contact the Council’s Transport Team via phone (015772 758 138) or email (transport@rutland.gov.uk).
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