Community Wheels is not a registered bus service, this means you will not be able to use concessionary NOWcards. The scheme is also for registered residents only and cannot be used by visitors to the area.
You will need to be registered with the Rural Wheels service where you can then pre-book your seat on the transport.
Register for the Rural Wheels scheme
Passenger fares are 25 pence per mile.
Areas the scheme covers
Routes include:
- Carlisle to Alston (and the other way round)
- Appleby to Scattegate (and the other way round)
- Appleby to Asby
Appleby to Milburn and through to Brampton:
- Appleby
- Dufton
- Knock
- Silverband
- Miburn
- Long Marton
- Brampton
Asby to Appleby via Ormside:
- Asby
- Ormside
- Warcop
- Sandford
- Appleby
How the scheme works
We will:
- provide the minibus asset and retain ownership of the vehicle
- work with the community through the steering group to develop the service that meets evidenced need
- support the recruitment of volunteer drivers
- ensure volunteer drivers are trained to Minibus Driver Awareness Scheme (MiDAS) standard and have full vehicle familiarisation
- ensure that the community minibuses are legal, roadworthy and in the correct location The day to day aspects of this will be delivered by Cumbria Community Transport on behalf of us
- monitor usage, and provide information to the steering group regarding cost of provision and income generated
The "Community" will:
- form a steering group and take ownership of the service
- work with us to develop, support and promote the service
- recruit a pool of volunteer drivers from their community to drive the minibus
If you want to become a driver
You will need to have:
- a full driving licence
- passed your driving test after 1997 and have Category D1 on your license (funding available)
Volunteer mileage expenses are covered at 45 pence per mile.
Private hire
The minibuses are also available for hire to "not-for-profit" groups through Cumbria Community Transport. This helps to generate additional income and enhance the service viability.
Contact Cumbria Community Transport
If you would like to know more about Community Wheels
Contact us to:
- discuss how this could be a solution to some of your communities transport needs
- volunteering as a minibus driver
Transport Services Team
Telephone: 07788 396194 or 0333 240 69 65 (option 5 - charged at local rate)