itravel On Demand - Connecting People and Places
Overview
What is itravel?
itravel is an on-demand rural bus service that can be booked online, using an app, or phone call, which allows a resident, or group of residents to request a bus for a specific journey.
itravel is a public transport service which offers on-demand pre-bookable travel. There is no fixed route or timetable, which puts you in control of your journey.
Where can I use itravel?
itravel serves key towns, villages and railway stations in the north of the Borough, within the designated zone outlined on the map below.
The map identifies the area served by the itravel bus, shown edged red, incorporating Frodsham, Sutton Weaver, Acton Bridge, Cuddington, Delamere, Elton and Helsby.
The itravel service is designed to improve links between rural areas and centres where connections can be made to other bus and rail services.
When can I use itravel?
The service is available Monday to Friday between 7am and 7pm (excludes Bank Holidays).
How do I book itravel?
You can book an itravel journey up to 20 minutes before you wish to travel (depending on availability) and up to 30 days in advance. itravel journeys can be booked in the following ways:
The itravel app
Search 'itravel | on-demand bus' or download the itravel app from:
By phone: 0330 678 1545
Online at:
Email:
If you need to contact us via email: chester.support@stagecoachbus.com.
How much does it cost?
£2 single journey within the designated zone and half fare for young people up to the age of 19.
English National Concessionary pass holders travel free.
Changes to fares from 1 November
The fare on the itravel Rural Mobility Funded Bus Service was set at £3 for a single journey from launch. With a half fare tariff for those under 19 years of age and free for under 5s. However, to align with the Government’s “Help For Households” national fare capping scheme on local bus services operating in England, we have now registered itravel as part of the national scheme.
From 1 November 2023 until 31 December 2024, the national £2 flat fare has been extended and will continue across England. We want itravel to be a well-used and affordable service for our community and as such the £2 single fare will continue, on the service until 31 December 2024, rather than reverting back to the £3 fare.
How is the service funded?
The service has been funded by the Department for Transport’s Rural Mobility Fund. The Council was successful in a competitive bidding round attracting £1.075m for the three-year pilot.
