Tees Valley agrees pilot for new ‘Uber-style’ bus service

The Tees Valley Mayor and Combined Authority has agreed plans to pilot a 'demand-responsive' bus service to help improve transport links in rural communities across the region.

Darlington, Hartlepool and Redcar and Cleveland will be used for the pilot, which will see passengers able to pre-book via a phone, smartphone app or via a website. They can request pick-up and drop-off points within the serviced area, and to destinations including transport hubs and hospitals outside of the area.

The scheme aims to help residents in more isolated communities access essential services and training and employment opportunities that are being created across Tees Valley.

The new model is expected to be up and running by the end of 2019 for a minimum of three years. If successful, there is potential to extend the service into other rural and possibly urban areas.

Ben Houchen, Tees Valley Mayor, said: “People in rural areas are frequently left behind as routes are decided by bus companies that need to make a profit. We’re driving cash into every part of our transport network, from upgrades to our major train stations, roads, and walking and cycling routes and an airport that’s now in our control – but I can’t nationalise buses. That’s why this Uber-style service is a great answer to get those people not served by other routes moving and where they need to be.”