Embrace public transport
Public transport, especially buses, offers a fantastic way to travel around Oxfordshire. Not only is it convenient and cost-effective, but it also brings numerous benefits. Let's explore why you should consider leaving your car at home and hop on a bus.
Reduce pollution and congestion
Buses offer a much eco-friendlier way to get travel around Oxfordshire. Buses are more fuel-efficient and can transport many passengers at once, which means fewer emissions per person. Fewer emissions mean less pollution, both in terms of greenhouse gases and noise, making the environment better for everyone.
Bus emissions will go down further as more and more cities implement plans for electric and hydrogen buses. Oxfordshire is making environmental strides by swapping out older, gas-guzzling buses for newer electric buses. While electric buses currently just operate in Oxford City, it is a great first step in making our buses even more sustainable to use on a daily basis.
Lower your travel expenses…
Traveling by bus is often much more affordable than driving a car. You save money on fuel, maintenance, insurance, and parking fees. In Oxfordshire, bus services like the Oxford Bus Company and Stagecoach offer competitive fares and reliable services, making it easy to save money while getting around.
Both also announced plans to participate in the government’s £3 cap on single bus fares in 2025. There is also the option to buy discounted travel options through multi-journey tickets, discounted bundles or by applying for a bus pass.
…while also boosting the economy
Something as simple as using a bus can help to keep local businesses running. Research shows that passengers spend approximately £1 in every £10 on the High Street, contributing nearly £40 billion annually to local economies. Buses provide access to essential services, education, and employment opportunities, especially for those who may not own a car.
The key thing to keep in mind is that buses can’t keep going without your help! Bus routes are driven by demand, and if you don’t use it, you may end up losing it.
Make your journey easier by planning ahead
Traveling by bus can be a stress-free experience. Instead of dealing with traffic and parking, you can read a book or enjoy the scenery. Public transport is also safer than driving; traveling by bus is 10 times safer per mile than traveling by car.
It’s easier to plan your trip ahead of time to avoid any last-minute surprises. Check bus routes using Traveline or check live departures at Oxontime.
Community transport can help fill the gap
There may be instances where regular bus services aren’t available or don’t connect you to where you need to go. In this case, there are bookable services that are available through community volunteers. These services offer safe, accessible, cost-effective, flexible transport run by the community for the community.
Community transportation could include car clubs, community minibuses, dial-a-ride, lift share or voluntary car schemes. These services can support getting people with disability to work, children to school, sick people to healthcare, and older people to the shops. You can see if there are community transport services near you by checking through the Community Transport Map by Community Transport Association or the Oxfordshire MarketPlace.
Oxfordshire County Council also run the Oxfordshire Comet, which provides low-cost transportation for residents who don’t have access to suitable public transport, wheelchair users or those with mobility issues.