New town bus service launches in Brandon

A new chapter in local public transportation began today, Tuesday 16th September, as a new town bus service officially launched, offering residents a convenient travel option around Brandon.

The inaugural journey was attended by local officials and eager passengers, setting a positive tone for the service’s future.

The first stop was at the top of Rattlers Road, opposite Walton Way, where Councillor Gorringe eagerly awaited the arrival of the bus. Designed as a mini bus rather than a traditional larger vehicle, the service aims to cater specifically to the needs of local residents, ensuring that it can navigate the area’s roads with ease.

Currently, the bus lacks a number or destination board, but drivers are empowered to stop at any point where passengers are waiting, creating a more personal and flexible service. “We want to make public transport accessible and responsive to the community,” said the driver, Steve, a resident of Brandon. “If you’re at a stop, just wave, and we’ll pick you up. It’s that simple.”

Once on board, passengers are greeted with a warm welcome as the driver opens the door and lowers the stairs for those with mobility needs, ensuring that everyone can board comfortably. Passengers present their Bus Pass for seamless travel. Councillor Gorringe noted, “This service is not just about getting from point A to point B; it’s about creating a community experience.”

The bus proceeded along its designated route, picking up Councillor Savage at Thetford Road’s Heron Avenue Path stop before continuing to the picturesque Brandon Country Park, the current terminal for the service. Arriving just as the Copper Beech tea room opened, passengers had the perfect opportunity to enjoy locally sourced coffee and delicious home-baked cakes.

“Having a service like this encourages people to explore our wonderful parks and local businesses,” commented Councillor Savage. “This is a step towards revitalizing community engagement and promoting sustainable travel options.”

The return journey allows for a well-timed two-hour stay at the Country Park or time to shop at nearby Aldi and Tesco, offering shoppers flexibility. “It’s a great way to spend a morning or afternoon out,” Steve added, highlighting the new bus service’s potential to boost local commerce.

With the timetable available online at Suffolk Onboard, the new service is easy to access and plan around. It is listed under the designation BTC, which aims to reflect its community-centred approach rather than a numerical designation. The digital schedule also allows for dynamic adjustments based on passenger needs.

Though the initial feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, some community members have voiced concerns about the service’s visibility. “I would like to see more signage or information visible at stops to ensure that everyone knows about this great initiative,” stated local resident Margaret Ellis.

As the community eagerly embraces this new service, local leaders encourage residents to take advantage of the bus and explore the local attractions. For more information, residents are encouraged to visit the Suffolk Onboard website to view the timetable and plan their journeys.