Transport

A new bus service has been launched which can be booked when required, providing  public transport with the convenience of a private taxi.

The on-demand service, ArrivaClick continues its regional growth by adding Ebbsfleet in Kent from next week.

Launching in partnership and funded by residential homebuilders Redrow and Henley Camland, landowner of Whitecliffe, Arriva will provide a new flexible bus service that can be booked when required.

The service is available through the ArrivaClick app, which allows rides to booked directly from a smartphone by selecting a pick up and drop off location.

The app will enable multiple riders to share the same vehicle, directing passengers to a nearby virtual bus stop within a short walking distance for pick up and drop off.

As part of the development of 15,000 homes in Ebbsfleet Garden City residents and visitors will benefit from the new service, which hopes to reduce the need for private car ownership.

TFares start from £1 and are based on trip distance. Weekly passes and credit bundles are also available.

Adam Toone, Business Development Director at Arriva UK Bus, said: “We’re excited to be working with both Redrow and Henley Camland with the support of Kent County Council to launch ArrivaClick to the local Ebbsfleet Garden City community. ArrivaClick will enable on demand commuter connectivity like never before, whilst providing the satisfaction of a greener way to travel.”

Ebbsfleet is the fourth region to receive this demand responsive transport solution, having first introduced it in the UK in 2017.

Arriva will provide up to three mini-buses, seating up to 15 people (currently a reduced capacity of six to ensure social distancing), operating within a defined operating zone.

Kent County Council Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport Michael Payne added: “This new DRT service represents the beginning of an exciting chapter for public transport in Ebbsfleet and the developing Whitecliffe community. As well as benefiting the new area of development, I am grateful that the service will also provide the links for existing neighbouring communities.”