Residents will be able to book the 99 Flex to arrive whenever they need for the same price as a normal bus ticket
An on-demand bus service into Chichester which can be booked to arrive whenever residents in rural areas need a lift has launched.
The 99 Flex, which has "no conventional timetable or routes" costs the same as a normal bus ticket and operates based completely on bookings received via a mobile app in hopes to better connect residents who are served by a limited bus service.
Launching today (24th of July), it'll first serve the area between Chichester and Petworth, with West Sussex County Council already looking to expand to other zones, such as "rural areas north of Petworth and north west of Chichester, and villages in the Barnham, Eastergate and Westergate areas not served by frequent conventional bus services."
Councillor and Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport Joy Dennis described the bus' flexibility as 'vital'.
"[It'll keep] our residents in rural areas connected with their communities and to provide continued access to key services, including healthcare, education, shops, and leisure facilities.
"The service follows an on-demand rideshare approach, allowing for travel around popular locations at a time that’s convenient for them.
“Although currently only available in areas between Chichester and Petworth, we are exploring expansion to more zones very soon.”
Compass Travel Managing Director, Chris Chatfield, the operator for the first zone, added: “Book-a-Bus is a great new way to travel across the county and will give more flexibility to the county’s residents and visitors.
“Ensuring the ease of travel for our passengers is a priority for us. Our buses are fully accessible with low-floor access and a designated space for wheelchairs on board. Our drivers are highly trained and can offer extra support at pick-up points and at the destination.”
Bookings for up to 5 passengers can be made via the Ride Pingo app, or by ringing the call centre on 01243 858854.
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