South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA) has opened the tender process to provide demand-responsive transport across Rotherham and Doncaster as part of a 12-month pilot scheme.
Value at £800,000 overall, the contract will be funded by SYMCA’s Transport Innovation Fund.
SYMCA, which is committed to pursuing bus franchising in the area, is set to test DRT for the first time as a way of improving connectivity for those where fixed routes are limited.
It is planning to run the scheme as two separate zones in Doncaster, beginning July, and Rotherham, beginning August.
South Yorkshire’s Mayor, Oliver Coppard, says: “I know how important reliable, accessible transport is for everyone across Rotherham and Doncaster, so we’re taking a positive step towards meeting those needs.
“We’re trying something new – a flexible service in those places where there isn’t enough demand for a regular bus route, but where we need to get to work, to school, to appointments or to see friends and family. It’s about finding practical, sustainable ways of making sure you’re not cut off from the essential services you rely on.
“What we need now are innovative, experienced operators to work with us as we test this new approach supporting our ambition for a fairer, inclusive and more accessible South Yorkshire.”
The invitation to tender indicates the contract is estimated to start in April.
Cllr Chris Read, Leader of Rotherham Council, adds: “We welcome this pilot. By working closely with SYMCA, we’re bringing a smarter transport option to Rotherham that helps plug gaps in the network and makes everyday journeys easier.
“It will strengthen local connections and support the long term improvements we’re driving forward for Rotherham’s transport network, giving people quicker, more reliable links into the wider public transport system.”
