Rutland’s On-Demand Bus Service is a Hit, Reaching New Villages
Rutland County Council’s CallConnect on-demand bus service is proving a success, having carried over 5,200 passengers in its first six months of operation since its launch in March 2025. The service, which adapts to passenger demand rather than following a fixed route, was introduced to boost public transport accessibility across Rutland's rural areas.
The flexible, reliable, and affordable service was expanded in August to cover two new zones, ensuring that all communities throughout Rutland now have access to the service. This vital expansion means that around twenty villages across the county have public bus service access for the very first time.
The new approach is a hit, particularly with residents in rural communities who previously had limited transport options. The service is connecting people to key destinations, including GP surgeries, local shops, schools, and transport hubs.
Councillor Delighted with Community Impact
Councillor Christine Wise, Portfolio Holder for Transport, Environment and Communities at Rutland County Council, expressed her satisfaction with the early results.
“We’re delighted with how well CallConnect has been received in its first six months. The service is helping people get where they need to go, reducing isolation, and supporting our wider sustainability goals by encouraging shared travel instead of individual car use.”
The on-demand service is complemented by the continued operation of the county’s two Town Hopper services in Oakham and Uppingham, ensuring accessible local travel options are available across the county.
Free Travel and How to Book
In a fantastic boost for local residents, most people in Rutland now have access to free bus travel until March 2026 on the on-demand CallConnect service.
Journeys can be booked easily via the CallConnect app, online, or by phone.
Online/Info: Detailed information, including maps and operating times, can be found on the Rutland County Council website:
www.rutland.gov.uk/rutland-buses/callconnect Book by Phone: Call the dedicated booking line on 0345 234 3344.
The Council is actively monitoring usage and feedback and encourages anyone who hasn't yet tried CallConnect to book a journey today.
New Villages with Bus Access
The twenty villages that have gained public transport links thanks to the CallConnect service are:
Clipsham
Stretton
Thistleton
Belmesthorpe
Little Casterton
Pickworth
Ayston
Bisbrooke
Braunston
Brooke
Egleton
Hambleton
Normanton
Pilton
Ridlington
Seaton
Stoke Dry
Thorpe by Water
Tixover
Wardley
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