NORTH Yorkshire towns could see an on-demand bus service here's how it works and how much it will cost and how it will affect you.

During the roadshow, the YorBus team will be visiting locations in its operational area and staff will explain how the service works and answer questions.

The service is run by North Yorkshire county council and YorBus will be piloted in the Ripon, Bedale and Masham area from July 1.

Users will be able to choose when and where they want to travel via a dedicated app which is set to be available to download from June 28. 

The app has been created by Via, the leader in TransitTech.

Once a pick-up and drop-off location has been selected, riders will be directed to a nearby bus stop. The app will allow passengers to plan and track their bus journey, even when on-board.

County Councillor Don Mckenzie, executive member for access, said: "We are very excited to see the roll-out of this on-demand bus service that will enhance our existing public transport network across North Yorkshire.

“The flexibility of the service means that more seats will be taken, resulting in less traffic on the roads. It aims to cut carbon emissions and sits well within our aspirations of achieving net carbon neutrality by 2030.

“I would encourage residents to attend the roadshows as they are a great opportunity to talk to staff about the new service, find out how it works, how to book and to ask any other questions.”

The roadshow is being held at the following times and locations:

  • Tuesday 22 June 9.30am to 11.30am: Bedale Market Place
  • Wednesday 23 June 9.30am to 11.30am: Masham Market Place (Church End)
  • Thursday 24 June 10am to 12noon: Ripon library
  • Thursday 24 June 1pm to 2pm: Grewelthorpe near Village Hall
  • Thursday 24 June 2.30pm to 3.30pm: Kirkby Malzeard opposite The Queens Head
  • Friday 25 June 9.30am to 11.30am: Lightwater Valley car park
  • Friday 25 June 1.30pm to 3.30pm: Fountains Abbey car park

The service is set to run from 6.55am to 6pm on weekdays and 9am to 6pm on Saturdays.

There will be a flat fair for using the service of £1.20 for adults and 65p for children between the ages of five to 17.

Customers can choose to pay by card or cash on the bus. Chidlren under five can travel for free and concessionary bus passes can be used on the service, subject to existing terms and conidtions.

YorBus will be fully accessible, with low floor access and a ramp access for users of wheelchairs, pushchairs and those with mobility difficulties.