News > Beartown Bus short listed in UK Bus Awards

Published 24 September 2008

Congleton's Beartown Bus Network has achieved over 100 per cent growth in passengers carried since it was launched twelve months ago - an achievement which has resulted in the service being shortlisted for the 2008 UK Bus Awards - for the 'Winning new customers' category.

The service was set up in conjunction with Cheshire County Council's Environment Department as part of its Transport and Regeneration review programme. This involved the County Council working closely with service operators, users and other stakeholders.

As a result Congleton now has a significantly improved service, provided by Bakerbus. Features include improved information, reliability, simplified timetable and new wheel chair accessible buses. Success has been underlined as the use of cars for local journeys has been reduced and passenger numbers more than doubled.

A number of bus stops along the routes have also been improved including new shelters with a second phase of works taking place in January. The eye-catching green livery and Beartown theme, developed by brand specialists FWT Limited, provides a reminder of the town's history.

Since Beartown's introduction the number of passengers has increased by 109 percent; and 99 percent of passengers who have taken part in a survey say that the driver's attitude is good or very good and 58 percent say they travel by car less often within Congleton.

Cheshire's Executive Member for Highways and Transportation Eveleigh Moore-Dutton said: "I am proud of Cheshire County Council's success of being short listed within the prestigious UK Bus Awards.

Phil Baker, Managing Director of Bakerbus said:

"Beartown Bus is a great project which we are proud to deliver with Cheshire County Council

"Careful timetable planning to suit customers, sensible, easy fares, new, bright and clean vehicles together with a reliable operation and of course professional and friendly drivers has meant that we have seen passenger numbers grow in excess of 100 percent in less than twelve months.

"Our customers see the Beartown as a simple and cost effective alternative to the car whether it is for shopping or visiting friends and relatives across the town."

The UK Bus Awards shortlist was announced yesterday (Tuesday 23rd September) at a luncheon held at the Hilton, Dartford Bridge hotel. Winners will be announced in London on 18th November at a presentation ceremony planned for the new Battersea Evolution venue.

Issued by Mike Ottewell
MJO PR Ltd for Bakers Coaches
Tel: 0845 883 3435