Wiltshire Connect transit system selects Via as new provider

Via Transportation is the new transportation technology and operations provider for Wiltshire Connect—Wiltshire Council’s flexible, demand-responsive transport service, which originally launched in 2023.  

The agency notes the service will now expand to cover the areas of Royal Wootton Bassett and Malmesbury, U.K., as well as introduce an upgraded experience for passengers. As a result, passengers will gain a more intuitive and convenient app booking experience, reduced wait times and more efficient service operations.   

The revamp of Wiltshire Connect supports the government of U.K.’s national bus strategy, which sets out a vision to deliver better transport coverage for passengers across England, including in more remote-outlying areas. The Wiltshire Council’s Bus Service Improvement Plan informed the approach of the upgraded service, which intends to improve rural mobility and increase overall transport patronage across the county.  

The Via-powered Wiltshire Connect service will match passengers headed in the same direction into one shared Mercedes minibus. Passengers may be directed to a virtual bus stop a short walking distance from their location. Via says wheelchair-accessible vehicles are available upon request. 

Service is available Monday through Friday from 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. and Saturdays from 8:00 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Passengers can pre-book journeys seven days in advance and up to 30 minutes before they want to travel.