On-demand bus services transform East Suffolk’s transport options

On-demand bus services transform East Suffolk’s transport options

Residents and visitors in East Suffolk are enjoying greater accessibility and convenience thanks to three on-demand bus services: Katch, CATS, and Connecting Communities. These services are transforming local transport by offering flexible journeys for everyone. Whether it’s a ride to the train station, a shopping trip, or a visit to a nearby village, these options are becoming an essential lifeline for the community.

Katch – Fast, convenient, and flexible

Funded by East Suffolk Council, Katch is a modern and reliable bus service that runs between Framlingham, Parham, Hacheston Wickham Market, Wickham Market train station at Campsea Ashe and Snape Maltings. Designed with flexibility in mind, Katch allows passengers to book a journey as little as 45 minutes in advance or up to two weeks before. With its ability to collect passengers at their chosen stop and time, Katch ensures travel is easy and adaptable to people’s schedules,

Whether commuting to work, heading to school, or meeting friends, Katch provides a convenient connection to other public transport options, such as train services at Wickham Market. With wheelchair-accessible vehicles, Katch caters to passengers with mobility needs as well as the wider community, offering an inclusive service for all.

CATS – Door-to-door independence

CATS, another invaluable service in East Suffolk, covers Leiston, Saxmundham, Aldeburgh, Framlingham, Woodbridge, and surrounding villages. It’s specifically designed to serve residents where access to public transport is limited or unavailable. For those who require a little extra assistance, CATS operates wheelchair-accessible minibuses that provide a door-to-door service, helping passengers get to their destination safely and comfortably – and like Katch, CATS is an inclusive service that can be used by all travellers.

Many CATS passengers use the service to remain independent, whether it’s a helping hand to the vehicle or a ride to local shops. While CATS is particularly beneficial for those who find walking distances challenging, it is open to the wider community, offering a convenient option for everyone.

Connecting Communities

Connecting Communities is a transport service provided by Suffolk County Council to support those who may not have access to regular public transportation in Suffolk. If getting to college, medical appointments, work, or visiting friends and family is a challenge, they’re here to help.

In partnership with Suffolk Community Transport Operators, they will pick you up and connect you to the nearest bus route or train link for onward travel, making your journey as smooth as possible. For trips where connecting isn’t suitable, they may be able to offer direct end-to-end transport.

Seamless collaboration for comprehensive travel

Katch, CATS and Connecting Communities work together to provide a comprehensive transport network throughout East Suffolk. By covering the towns and villages of Framlingham, Saxmundham, Aldeburgh, Woodbridge, and beyond, or whether you’re looking for a direct ride into town or a connection to a train station, these services offer a reliable and adaptable solution.

In a time where convenient, flexible, and accessible transport is more important than ever, these services are setting the standard for on-demand bus services in East Suffolk.

Visit the websites to find our more and book your journey >> Katch, CATS, Connecting Communities 

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