New minibus service for communities after buses axed

The service, the result of sustained lobbying by the Knightwood and Valley Park campaigners, now links Knightwood and Valley Park with destinations including Chandler's Ford, Hiltingbury, Velmore and Eastleigh.

Susan Dorsett, originator and leader of the campaign group, said: "After many months of negotiations and hard work we now have a mini bus running up to six times a weekday reconnecting Knightwood and Valley Park with other local communities.

Knightwood and Valley Park Campaigners protesting the end of their bus service. (Image: Susan Dorsett)

"This is just the start of a long road ahead to establishing fully accessible proper public bus services that run at least six days a week, including evenings, to a regular, frequent and reliable timetable."

Funded by a combination of parish councils, a government community grant, and a contribution from the owners of Ampfield Meadows retirement village, the minibus will run for an initial two-year period.

It does not replace the Stagecoach 46/461 services, which were cut last June and August.

Mrs Dorsett said: "We still need direct services to and from our hospitals too. We have been told 'use it or lose it' so please do support the service and publicise it widely."

She continued: "Let’s get our communities reconnected and bring the joy and independence back into people’s lives.

"Every individual deserves the right to be able to travel beyond their own home, whether for medical reasons, exercise, faith, visiting family and friends, business or pleasure."

She highlighted the wider value of public transport.

Mrs Dorsett said: "The benefits of bus travel cannot be over sold. The bus is a vital community hub, which has been repeatedly overlooked by HCC and our former transport operators."

She said she had already reported to Alex Barrett, CEO of Community First - the service operator - that the minibus has become a vital community hub.

Mrs Dorsett said: "Already, passengers (including me) are happier due to the companionship away from our homes.

"I personally have met former bus passengers that I have not seen since pre-Covid."

The campaigners plan to continue pushing for improved transport links and broader changes.

Other goals include reinstating 24/7 national bus pass validity for physically disabled pass holders.

Residents are encouraged to use the service regularly to help secure its future beyond the initial funding period.