Cumberland Council is highlighting the wide range of transport options available across the area, helping residents stay connected whether travelling by bus or through community transport schemes.
Significant investment in the Cumberland Go bus network has made public transport more accessible and affordable than ever. Passengers can now enjoy single journeys for just £3, alongside 18 new and enhanced routes connecting Carlisle, West Cumbria and key coastal communities. These improvements are making it easier for people to travel for work, education, healthcare and leisure.
However, in some rural areas where traditional bus services cannot meet every need, community transport provides a vital alternative.
For users like Pat from Keswick, these services are essential.
“For me, I can’t walk the distance, and with no public transport available, this service makes it possible to get where I need to go,” she explains.
“This service is a lifeline for me and my husband. It’s reliable, affordable, and without it, we simply wouldn’t be able to stay in our home of 26 years.”
Voluntary Social Car Schemes, delivered by volunteer drivers, enable people to travel where no other transport options exist, with 17 schemes currently operating across Cumberland.
Additional services such as Rural Wheels offer flexible, pre-booked journeys linking people to nearby towns or onward transport connections, while community minibus and group travel schemes provide further accessible options
Together, these services complement the wider public transport network, ensuring no one is left behind, particularly in more rural communities.
Cumberland Councillor Denise Rollo, Executive Member for Sustainable, Resilient and Connected Places, said:
“We have made real progress in improving public transport across Cumberland, with more routes, better connections and affordable fares through the Cumberland Go network.
“At the same time, we recognise that no single solution works for every community. That is why community transport schemes play such an important role, providing flexible, local support where traditional services cannot always reach.
“Volunteers, community groups and local operators all play a part in keeping our communities connected and helping residents stay independent.”
The council is continuing to work with partners to strengthen both public and community transport, including exploring opportunities with taxi and private hire operators to further improve access in rural areas.
Flexible opportunities remain available for those interested in getting involved, whether as volunteer drivers or in supporting roles within local schemes.
Find out more by visiting: www.cumberland.gov.uk/voluntarycarscheme
Or contact Katy Wood, Volunteer Transport Officer:
Phone: 0333 240 6965 (option 1 then option 5) or 07788 396194
Email: [email protected]
