Stagecoach launches 500 Chichester to Littlehampton route

The eco-friendly 500 route between Chichester and Littlehampton started last week with fanfare from councillors and transport bigwigs.

To celebrate, passengers will be able to travel on it free for one week later this month.

It is hoped the route will bring rural communities closer together and improve the local economy between the two areas.

Marc Reddy (second from left) and members of West Sussex County Council (Image: Stagecoach)

It will run every 30 minutes Monday to Saturday daytime, with hourly services on Sundays and bank holidays.

A launch ceremony was held at Yapton Village Hall with Marc Reddy, managing director for Stagecoach South, joined by West Sussex County Council cabinet member for highways and transport Councillor Joy Dennis and the Mayor of Chichester Craig Gershater along with representatives from West Sussex County Council, Arun District Council and Chichester District Council.

It will connect Chichester with Littlehampton through Shopwhyke, Barnham and Yapton.

Marc said "Buses are vital in bringing our communities closer, particularly in a time when we are all mindful of the need to live and travel more sustainably.

"The new service 500 provides improved public transport links to those living in more rural areas and gives better access for village residents to shopping, work and leisure."

The branding for the new buses (Image: Stagecoach)

All buses running on the service will be low emission.

Cllr Joy Dennis said: “The new 500 route is a fantastic resource for those residents living in more rural areas, providing improved access to essential services, shops and businesses, education and leisure facilities in the local area.

"When combined with the £2 single fare cap, it offers a great sustainable travel and low carbon transport option to the public.”

The service will be free to all passengers between July 23 and July 29.