New on-demand bus service for Ripon and Masham

Connor Creaghan

May 20, 2021

Ripon and Masham are to get a new on-demand bus service as part of a pilot scheme to improve links to rural areas.

YorBus, which is run by North Yorkshire County Council, launches on July 1 and is due to be trialled for 12 months.

The service allows passengers to book a ride when and where they need one.

Once a passenger has chosen a pickup and drop-off location, they will need to head to a bus stop for a pooled ride.

Residents can book the bus through an app or by phone. The app will be available from June 28.

YorBus covers the area shaded in blue.

The app allows passengers to plan and track their bus journey, including how long the bus will take to arrive.

It will operate from 6.55am to 6pm on weekdays and 9am to 6pm on Saturdays.

There will be a flat fare of £1.20 for adults and 65p for children between the ages of 5 and 17. Children under 5 can travel for free. Concessions can also be used.

YorBus is also fully accessible, with low floor access and a ramp for those with wheelchairs and pushchairs.

Cllr Don MacKenzie, the executive member for access, stated:

“The YorBus project is intended to provide transport to help people to travel to work, to go shopping, to attend medical appointments and to access other services, which they need. We hope it will offer a viable and affordable alternative to the private motor car.

“The flexibility of the scheme also means that a high proportion of seats on buses will be occupied on every journey, which will lead to better value for money and greater environmental benefits too.”

To promote the launch of YorBus, the council is running roadshows to speak to residents about the service, stopping off at the following locations: