Electric powered shared rides could be the way forward to help people get around the borough.
Councillor Martin Gowans, Cabinet Member for Transport, has approved an innovative new trial with ViaVan to accept concessionary bus passes as payment on journeys in Emerson Valley, Furzton and Tattenhoe.
This trial, only on specific journeys in those areas, will help the council understand whether shared ride services could complement MK’s bus network as part of its bus network review later this year.
ViaVan currently runs a shared ride service across MK using a fleet of electric cars. It will cap its normal fare in the pilot areas during the trial at £2.50.
Councillor Martin Gowans, Cabinet Member for Transport said, “This is another example of how we’re taking action on climate change and looking to widen options for public transport. The trial will help us understand if this could enhance our existing concessionary bus services.”
“Together with Milton Keynes Council, we are excited to expand public transport options in Milton Keynes with on-demand, electric shared rides,” said Chris Snyder, ViaVan CEO. “ViaVan and Milton Keynes Council share the belief that technology can help create smarter, more sustainable public transport options, and this service is the next step towards that future.”
In the trial, concessionary pass holders will simply book their travel via an app or by telephone.
