New Digital Slinky transport service is just a click away
Released On 22nd May 2024
People living in the Somerton and Langport areas can now take advantage of a trial on-demand flexible transport service.
The brand new Digital Slinky minibuses are funded by the Government’s £13 million Bus Service Improvement Grant (BSIP), along with a raft of other BSIP measures in Somerset. It can be booked quickly and easily by anybody living in Somerton and the surrounding villages – all you need to do is register and either book it online or by downloading the app. You can find out more here , including other ways to book.
The service is being introduced on Tuesday 28 May a trial basis until March 2026. Digital Slinky could end up helping to transform demand responsive transport in the county if it is successful. The booking line opens on Monday 13 May.
The service offers a handy alternative for people needing to get to the shops, work, appointments or social visits if a bus service is not easily available, or they just want to leave the car at home.
The Slinky app uses existing bus stops and landmarks as pick-up points, to connect people to local places of interest within the operating area – such as the supermarkets, town centres, education and health care services. There are also plans to connect people with the current public transport network for onward travel.
For people who can’t get to a designated pick-up point, due to mobility issues, a pick-up can be arranged from home. You can book up to an hour before your journey time and two weeks in advance – which is recommended where possible to secure your journey.
Somerset Council’s Lead Member for Transport and Digital, Councillor Richard Wilkins said:
In a rural county like ours demand responsive transport has the potential to play a much bigger role going forward.
