Rural Transport and Minibuses

Most people are familiar with the red and grey Community Transport minibuses that travel around Derbyshire, taking people out and about for all kinds of reasons. They form the backbone of transport resources which enable groups to get together.

There are also many other minibuses owned by voluntary or community organisations that offer transport to people travelling to club or society meetings.

The Rural Transport Partnership, managed by Derbyshire Rural Community Council, are planning to undertake a mapping exercise to find out how many independent minibuses are operating, and which communities they serve.

They will then create a list of all minibuses in Derbyshire which could help people access the transport resources most appropriate to their needs.

Rural Transport Partnership are offering advice, support and some small scale funding opportunities (up to £1,000) to help improve any minibus schemes. If you are from an organisation that owns a minibus or you know of a minibus operating in your area, contact Elspeth Mallowan on 01246 271739 or email elspethm@derbysrcc.org.uk

(from Network News, July/August 2004)