Mid Suffolk rolls out new ‘Taxi Bus’ service for local communities
Mid Suffolk is set to introduce two new community transport services next month, aimed at connecting local communities more effectively while reducing emissions.
Funded by Mid Suffolk District Council’s Rural Transport Grants Scheme, the initiatives follow a substantial £820,000 budget allocation for rural transport as part of the 2022/23 financial plan.
The services target better access to and from Stowmarket and link villages across Debenham, Eye, and other areas. They are designed to provide more travel options where current provisions are lacking.
Starting on 1 November, the Mid Suffolk ‘Taxi Bus’ service will be run by Swift Taxi Cabs. It will initially operate two routes: the Stowmarket Circular via Thurston and Stowmarket Circular via Bacton. These areas were chosen based on need, particularly where transport gaps are significant. To celebrate the launch, all rides on the first day will be free. Afterward, fares will be set at a flat £6, with booking available online or in cash on board.
Over the next year, the service plans to expand with five additional routes, including the Stowmarket Circular via Debenham and the Debenham Circular via Eye. Full details and updates will be posted on the Mid Suffolk Taxi Bus website as they are finalised. The service will also offer opportunities for local businesses to advertise digitally on board.
A few days later, on 4 November, the Rural Connect community bus service will begin operating across north Mid Suffolk. Managed by Communities Together East Anglia, it will function as a demand-responsive service with door-to-door bookings. Future scheduled routes may be considered if demand is high.
Rural Connect will cover areas such as Eye and Diss, Eye and Debenham, and Stowmarket, using a fully electric vehicle to support the council’s climate goals. Bookings can be made up to two weeks in advance via phone or email, with fares ranging from £3.00 for short journeys up to £12.00 for distances of 17 to 20 miles. Card payments will also be accepted on board.
Strategically placed stops near rail stations, colleges, and employment hubs are included to assist commuting residents. The service has been designed with enough flexibility to occasionally cross over with other routes as necessary.
The council’s Rural Transport Grants Scheme aims to provide alternatives to individual car journeys, supporting cleaner air and reduced emissions in line with Mid Suffolk and Suffolk Climate Change Partnership’s net zero targets. The introduction of these transport options will also allow for analysis of user demand and long-term viability.
Both services are intended to complement existing schemes, like Suffolk County Council’s ‘Connecting Communities’, while remaining adaptable to integrate with future transport projects. The council will keep monitoring these initiatives, alongside other local and national transport developments, to ensure sustainable solutions for rural communities.
Cllr Teresa Davis, cabinet member for thriving towns and rural communities at Mid Suffolk District Council, said: “It’s very exciting we’re now ready to launch these new community transport services funded through our Rural Transport Grants Scheme – and it’s great to see operators innovatively rising to the challenges that rural transport inevitably brings.
“The aim is to ensure our rural communities are better connected with key services and locations.
“The transport services are there to be used by all ages. Whether you’re commuting to college, work, or meeting a friend for a drink or dinner, please do take a look at the routes and work out where you may be able to swap out a car journey or more.”
Duane Hogger, company director at Swift Taxi Cabs, said: “We’re excited to deliver a fresh new concept in community transport services to the residents of Mid Suffolk.
“Delivering community transport services will always present challenges, but we’re ready, ambitious, and up to the challenge, to ensure residents can connect with the people and places that matter to them. Simply put we are more than just a transport operator; we are a community on wheels, connecting people from all walks of life.
“So, I would encourage residents across Mid Suffolk to head to our Mid Suffolk Taxi Bus website for more details of the routes and new services.”
