A new community transport service has been launched to help people living in the villages north of Lowestoft to get out and about more easily. The service is operated by BACT and funded by East Suffolk Community Partnerships. Buzzabout is a bookable bus service for residents in Gunton East, Somerleyton, Lound, Blundeston and St Olaves.
East Suffolk’s Community Partnerships set up a Transport and Travel group to identify parts of the district lacking in rural transport and are working across East Suffolk to introduce new on-demand transport options.
A recent survey found that 23% of residents in the villages to the north of Lowestoft do not have access to a car or traditional public transport, leaving them feeling isolated and dependent on other people. Buzzabout has been launched as a direct response to this issue, to help people of all ages access shops, services, and social activities more easily.
Cllr Norman Brooks, East Suffolk Council’s cabinet member for Transport said: “Introducing new on-demand transport options for those living in rural communities where there is limited public transport is one way in which we are tackling social isolation, which can have a real impact on people’s mental and physical health. Shared transport is also cheaper and better for the environment than using a car, especially for short journeys.
“We are delighted to have launched Buzzabout which will help people of all ages travel independently to groups and activities where they can meet others, as well as carry out everyday tasks such as shopping and attending appointments.”
Cllr Paul Ashdown, Chairman of the Lowestoft and Northern Parishes Community Partnership who have contributed to the development of the service, said: “This service is for those in rural areas to get into surrounding villages and the town, but also encourages those in Lowestoft to use the service to visit family, friends and attend events or functions in the rural communities. We hope the service will also encourage passengers to visit the countryside for walks and fresh air and experience the beautiful Suffolk rural areas.”
The 16-seat minibus, Buzzabout can be booked to pick people up at existing bus stops, from their home or anywhere and take them exactly where they want to go, including into Lowestoft town centre, Somerleyton and Lowestoft train stations, the Tesco superstore at Leisure Way, Somerleyton Hall or into other neighbouring villages. The minibus is also fully accessible to wheelchair users.
Buzzabout fares are discounted until July 2023; a return trip from Lound to Lowestoft is just £4.00. Payment can be made when boarding the bus, using either cash or contactless payment.
The service operates on Mondays and Thursdays between 8.30am and 4.30pm and can be booked by calling BACT on 01986 896896, Monday to Friday, 9am to 4pm.
