AN expanded on-demand bus service is being launched to improve public transport in rural areas.
Northwich and Winsford communities, such as Acton Bridge, Marton, and Whitegate, will benefit from the upgraded 'itravel' scheme, which will go live on Friday, July 31.
The flexible, pre-bookable bus service follows approval from Cheshire West and Chester Council and the Cheshire and Warrington Combined Authority.
Cllr Karen Shore, cabinet member for transport and highways, said: "Friday marks an exciting new chapter for itravel and for public transport across rural west Cheshire.
"Over the past three years, the service has demonstrated the real difference flexible, on demand transport can make to people’s lives.
"It has helped residents access employment, education, healthcare, shopping and leisure opportunities that might otherwise be difficult to reach.
"We’re delighted that the service is continuing and expanding to serve even more rural communities.
"By investing in innovative transport solutions such as itravel, we are helping to tackle isolation, improve connectivity and create a more accessible and sustainable transport network for residents across the borough."
Launched in July 2023, itravel was initially funded by the Department for Transport's Rural Mobility Fund to provide transport in areas with limited or no traditional bus routes.
It operates by responding to individual journey requests within a defined operating area, helping people access key destinations including town centres, schools, medical appointments, railway stations, leisure facilities and local businesses.
The expanded service will continue covering its existing area while reaching additional rural communities.
Three vehicles will now serve areas including Barrow, Dunham-on-the-Hill, Mickle Trafford, Picton, Stoak, Acton Bridge, Marton, Whitegate, Foxtwist Green, Kelsall, Willington, Mere Bank and Little Leigh.
Future growth may be considered where operationally possible.
Funding for the extended service comes from the Rural Mobility Fund, the Bus Service Improvement Plan (BSIP) and the future Bus Services Fund.
The council sees the expanded itravel scheme as part of its wider ambitions to improve public transport across rural parts of the borough.
Cllr Shore said the scheme supports efforts to reduce social isolation, increase mobility, and build a more sustainable transport network.
Existing itravel users do not need to re-register, but should note that the call centre telephone number will change.
Journeys can be booked through the itravel app or by phone, and bookings for the expanded service are now open.
Further details, including operating hours, booking information and the updated service area map, are available on the itravel website.
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