The Robin - bookable bus service launches in three new areas
We’re thrilled to launch the expansion of our innovative, on-demand bookable bus service – The Robin. Department for Transport (DfT) funding helped launch The Robin pilot, which currently operates in the Forest of Dean and the north Cotswolds. This pilot is now expanding into parts of Tewkesbury, Berkeley Vale and the south Cotswolds thanks to extra DfT funding of over £1.5million over two years.
What is the Robin?
For those who haven’t had the opportunity to try it yet - The Robin is a local, friendly bookable bus service. Passengers search for their ideal journey and book a pickup and drop off location that suits them.
It's affordable at only £2 per journey and connects passengers with transport links such as bus stops or directly to a location if there are no other transport options available.
The Robin improves connections between rural areas which often have infrequent or no other transport available. By offering this it increases access to services and the wider transport network in the county, expanding access to employment, education, healthcare and shopping.
What do passengers think?
Passenger feedback is overwhelmingly positive – see below for a selection:
“It’s such a helpful and useful mode of transport so thank you.”
“Our family (teenage children mainly) have found the service amazing (drivers are fantastic).”
“Our daughter and her boyfriend use it to collect them from sixth form and for social visits. My mother-in-law uses it too and finds phoning up a simple process.”
“Use the service all the time - very courteous and helpful drivers.”
When are the new routes available?
The new areas will launch in the below areas over the course of three weeks. For specific areas served have a look on the website for detailed maps. Bookings are available the week before each launch date.
- 3 June - Tewkesbury district
- 10 June - south Cotswold
- 17 June - Berkeley Vale
To book
Passengers can book easily and simply by:
Phone – 0345 263 8139
Web - The Robin | Gloucestershire County Council
App - search for The Robin
Paying
Pay in advance on card or with cash or card to the driver.
Hard copy materials will be made available to members and in communities in due course.