Community Transport News

A new initiative to provide an additional cash boost to community transport groups in Bath & North East Somerset has been approved for payment by the West of England Rural Renaissance Board administered by Bath & North East Somerset Council.

Continuing on the success of the previous larger grants funding of £50k from the South West Rural Development Agency that ended in 2006, this new grant totalling £7,833 will help provide further small funds for nine groups.

The money will go towards marketing and publicity costs, research, computer equipment, mileage expenses for volunteer drivers and health and safety improvements. The projects supported include Dial-a-Ride services, community minibuses and voluntary car schemes.

Community transport projects enable residents to phone for a low-floor, fully accessible bus to pick them up from their front door, making previously difficult journeys to the doctors, dentists or the shops much easier.

Overcoming social exclusion is at the heart of what community transport is about. Bath & North East Somerset Council is committed to supporting local community transport initiatives by giving direct support such as advice on operational matters and by providing funding, subject to meeting funding criteria and budgetary limitations.