Rutland County Council Extends Free Travel on CallConnect Through to March 2027

Rutland County Council Extends Free Travel on CallConnect Through to March 2027

Residents across Rutland can look forward to another year of free, flexible public transport as the County Council confirms it will extend its popular CallConnect service until 31 March 2027. This decision follows the welcome news of a new multi-year Local Authority Bus Grant settlement from the Department for Transport, which was announced earlier this month.

The extension is a significant win for a service that has quickly become a vital piece of the county’s infrastructure. Since its introduction, the CallConnect network a Demand Responsive Transport (DRT) solution has transformed how rural residents travel. In its first year, the service facilitated over 17,000 journeys and brought public transport to 20 villages that previously lacked any form of service. By linking these communities to essential destinations such as GP surgeries, schools, shops, and larger transport hubs, the initiative has played a crucial role in reducing social isolation and expanding economic and social opportunities for residents.

Councillor Christine Wise, Portfolio Holder for Transport, Environment and Communities, expressed her enthusiasm for the decision, noting that the extension will continue to provide flexible and reliable transport at no cost to the user. She emphasised that the service is doing more than just moving people; it is actively supporting local mobility, encouraging greener travel choices, and helping the council meet its environmental goals by reducing transport emissions.

This move is a cornerstone of the Council’s 2024 Bus Service Improvement Plan (BSIP), which remains committed to maintaining a robust hybrid network of CallConnect and traditional bus services. By ensuring that every household in the county retains access to free transport, the Council aims to continue boosting passenger numbers while making it easier for residents to reach workplaces, healthcare facilities, and educational training.

For those looking to take advantage of the service, more information and guidance on how to use the CallConnect network can be found by visiting the official Rutland bus website at www.rutlandbuses.info.