New Sheffield Connect city centre service launched

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A bus service connecting 12 stops in and around Sheffield city centre has been launched, operating seven days a week to cover the main shopping areas and times with a regular service throughout the day.

Councillor Terry Fox, Leader of Sheffield City Council, said: “This service will be a huge asset to the city. I know it’s something our city centre businesses and the public have been waiting for and I’m really pleased to say it’s here. With the cost of living crisis and well-publicised issues with public transport, we’re taking action into our own hands, putting Sheffield first to provide much-needed transport for those who really need it.

“Access in and around the city will be much easier. We’ve ensured the bus is fully accessible with priority disabled seating at the front and the service has been designed with air quality and Clean Air Zone (CAZ) in mind. It will provide a safe route for travellers while the improvement works are going on in our city centre. It will help support active travel into the city and make a real difference to those who work, live in, and visit Sheffield.”

A diesel Euro VI bus is being used initially, to be followed by an electric bus once funding is confirmed. Following consultation, the £200k of funding, agreed in May, will come from the Council’s share of the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority’s Mayor’s Sustainable Transport Fund.

The route has 12 stops and will be free to people with a valid travel ticket or pass, or £1 without a pass, and is operated by South Pennine Community Transport.