A new bus service has been launched to connect local communities in West Sussex.

Thanks to funding awarded by the Department for Transport through the Bus Service Improvement Plan, and in partnership with West Sussex County Council, the new 500 service, operated by Stagecoach, started on Sunday 2nd July and runs from Chichester to Littlehampton, via St Richard's Hospital, Shopwhyke, Barnham and Yapton.

Service 500 runs every 30 minutes Monday to Saturday daytimes, and hourly on Sundays & Bank Holidays.

At a special launch ceremony, held at Yapton Village Hall, Marc Reddy, Managing Director for Stagecoach South was joined by West Sussex County Council Cabinet Member for Highways and transport, Councillor Joy Dennis and The Mayor of Chichester City Council, Councillor Craig Gershater along with representatives from West Sussex County Council, Arun District Council and Chichester District Council.

Speaking at the launch, 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".

All vehicles operating the service 500 are low emission euro 6 buses, and locally branded to reflect the route. Marc added “We are committed to doing everything we can to make our buses as environmentally friendly as they can be for the communities we serve.

Not only are we fully committed to reducing our collective carbon footprint across the South of England, but we want to show how buses can help us move towards a low carbon Britain.

By taking the bus more often, the people of West Sussex can significantly reduce their carbon emissions”.

The £2 single fare cap will apply to single journeys on all bus services until October 2023, when the price will change to £2.50. The fare cap provides opportunities for travel to work, college, or days out at a bargain price.

In addition to the £2 single fare cap, Stagecoach are pleased to announce that service 500 will be free to all users during the week, 23rd July -29th July inclusive. Marc said "I hope the free ticket offer will help encourage people to choose this new public transport link and leave their cars at home."

Cllr Joy Dennis from WSCC 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 Mayor of Chichester City Council - Councillor Craig Gershater said “As Mayor and local councillor I have become very aware of many resident’s concern about supporting infrastructure including adequate transport links to accompany the prolific amount of house-building in the area and that I regard this kind of initiative as essential to the further development of our region.”

Find out more here about the new service, including bus times and a handy route map.