County's on-demand bus service clocks up 100,000 journeys
An on-demand transport service introduced to help rural residents in areas of Leicestershire where buses have been depleted has now clocked up 100,000 journeys.
FoxConnect, which was launched in January 2025, works in conjunction with Centrebus and Premier Taxis provides flexible, bookable transport in 11 operating zones, including two serving the Melton area.
More than 8,000 residents have signed up to use the Leicestershire County Council-run service and passengers have rated their journeys on it at an average of 4.8 out of 5 over the past six months.
Councillor Andrew Hamilton-Gray, cabinet member for highways and transport, said: “This milestone highlights the growing popularity of demand-responsive transport and the role that FoxConnect plays in improving connectivity for local communities.
“Reaching 100,000 journeys is a fantastic achievement and demonstrates just how valuable the service has become in helping residents get to where they need to be in a flexible, convenient and affordable way.”
Passengers can book journeys through the Leicestershire FoxConnect app, or by calling the telephone booking line on 0116 216 7756.
Zone one services take people from villages north and east of Melton Mowbray, such as Long Clawson, Old Dalby, Scalford, Bottesford, Waltham-on-the-wolds, Brentingby, Saxby and Buckminster.
The zone two journeys can be booked at communities south and west of Melton, including Great Dalby, Somerby, Frisby, Syston and Brooksby.
David Brookes, managing director at Centrebus, said: “Reaching 100,000 journeys on FoxConnect is a fantastic milestone, and one we're incredibly proud of.
“Thanks to the council and to our drivers and team for making this possible, and we're looking forward to connecting many more communities in the years ahead.”
Rides can be booked up to seven days in advance or up to 45 minutes before the journey on a first-come, first-served basis.
FoxConnect offers free travel after 9.30am on weekdays and all day on Saturdays for older and disabled person's bus pass holders and children under five, as well as half-price fares for young people aged 5-19.
More information, as well as a full list of villages served by FoxConnect can be found Go to www.choosehowyoumove.co.uk/leicestershire-foxconnect for a full list of villages served by FoxConnect.