Rutland County Council is set to overhaul its bus network with the introduction of a new Dynamic Demand Responsive Travel (DDRT) service.

Rutland County Council is set to overhaul its bus network with the introduction of a new Dynamic Demand Responsive Travel (DDRT) service.

The Council's Cabinet will meet on November 12th to consider proposals outlined in a Transport Network Review. If approved, this move will see a significant shift in how bus services are delivered in Rutland.

The DDRT service aims to provide more flexible and efficient public transport, especially in rural areas. Smaller vehicles, like minibuses, will be used to pick up and drop off passengers at designated stops, with bookings made in advance. This approach is expected to be more cost-effective and environmentally friendly than traditional bus services.

The Council's decision comes in response to declining passenger numbers and rising costs. The number of bus journeys in Rutland has dropped significantly since the pandemic, and the cost of running services has increased substantially. By implementing the DDRT service, the Council hopes to save £300,000 annually.

While some traditional bus routes will be replaced by the DDRT service, others will remain in operation. For example, the R1 service between Melton Mowbray, Oakham, Uppingham, and Corby will continue to operate.

The Council is committed to consulting with the public and key stakeholders on these changes. Extensive promotional activity is planned for the New Year to inform residents about the new services and how to use them.

By embracing innovative approaches like DDRT, Rutland County Council aims to create a more sustainable and affordable public transport system for its residents.