Bus company renews contract to run park and ride

First Solent has operated the service since 2014

A bus operator will continue to run a major city's park and ride service for the next five years.

First Solent, which is part of First Bus South, successfully tendered for the contract to continue operating Portsmouth Park and Ride - having run the service since it first opened in 2014.

The service, which is operated on behalf of Portsmouth City Council, carries over a quarter of a million passengers each year.

As part of the contract renewal, First Solent said it would be working with the council to encourage more people to use the service.

The drive is part of the local authority's campaign for cleaner air in the city.

The buses used for the park and ride route are fully compliant with Portsmouth’s Clean Air Zone.

The operator has also committed to investing in a local wildlife project at Farlington Marshes.

Simon Goff, managing director at First Bus South, said the operator was "so proud" to continue its "longstanding partnership" with Portsmouth City Council.

"The service is a brilliant solution for passengers, allowing people to enjoy Portsmouth in a stress-free way," he added.

Peter Candlish, council cabinet member for transport, said: “We’re pleased that First Solent will continue to run this popular service for us."

Buses from the park and ride on Tipner Lane, just off the M275, run to and from the city centre every 15 minutes.