County's app-based bus service to expand

Users can book the on demand service using an app

A bus service based on demand rather than using fixed routes and timetables has been expanded in Worcestershire.

Earlier this year, the service was developed to serve the Malvern Hills district, and will now cover areas including Beckett’s Farm, the Princess of Wales Community Hospital, Attwell Farm Park and Lickey Hills Country Park.

Since the scheme launched it has completed 65,000 trips, which Worcestershire County Council said was a "great success".

Bradley Thomas, MP for Bromsgrove, said the service would protect village communities by "strengthening the rural economy".

"Providing better links to rail and bus stations will also support people to not just get around the county but also get around the country,” he said.

The service currently travels to places including Malvern Hospital, Malvern Railway Station, the Transport Museum and Malvern Retail Park.

Booking the service can be done through the Worcestershire on Demand app and passengers will be charged a flat fare of £2.50 for the first person in a group, with additional passengers paying £1.25.

The buses run from 07:00 to 19:00, Monday to Saturday.

The council added that any help needed to navigate the app would be available at local libraries.

Councillor Marc Bayliss said: "We know it’s important to our residents to have options and flexibility when travelling around the county and this extended service provides just that.

"This service is a key part of our mission to enhance and secure bus travel in Worcestershire,” he said.