‘Little & Often’ Stagecoach trials high-frequency transport solution

Operator Stagecoach is to trial a high-frequency transport solution known as ‘Little & Often’ which will offer a new turn-up-and-go travel product for local people.

Stagecoach is to pilot a high frequency transport solution in Ashford, Kent representing the only one of its kind in the UK.

Stagecoach has invested almost £3million in a fleet of 30 Mercedes minibuses which will enter service from 12 February 2017. On some routes the investment will boost frequency from three to 12 buses an hour. If successful, the operator may roll out the service elsewhere in the UK.

‘Little & Often’ high-frequency transport solution to offer journeys up to every 5 minutes

The 17-seat vehicles featuring Euro 6 engines will operate to extremely high frequency levels, offering journeys up to every five minutes from 6am until 11pm seven days a week. Stagecoach believes the service is a new approach to bus travel and will deliver a more intuitive and convenient service for customers.

On commencement of the new service, contactless payments made with debit and credit cards, as well as Apple Pay and Android Pay will be accepted.

Commenting on the introduction, Stagecoach UK Bus Managing Director Robert Montgomery said: “This is an exciting new travel option for customers and once again demonstrates our commitment to innovation and trying different things to help deliver even better services for passengers.

“We know convenience is key in modern-day life. None of us want to wait longer than we have to for anything – this new ‘turn-up-and-go’ product will free up more time for customers and provide them with the reassurance that there will always be another bus along in a matter of minutes.”