LinkUp Bus Service extended to keep Lichfield villages connected
Lichfield District Council's popular LinkUp on-demand bus service has been extended and funded for an additional five months, continuing through to October 2025.
LinkUp has been a lifeline for many rural communities across the district, offering flexible and accessible transport for residents in villages where traditional bus routes are limited or unavailable.
The service enables people to travel to local town centres, medical appointments, workplaces, and other key destinations — supporting independence and reducing social isolation.
Thanks to continued UKSPF funding, the service will now run until the end of October 2025, giving more residents the opportunity to benefit from reliable, responsive transport.
Two buses were trialled for a six month period, and the service will continue with one bus to match the demand.
Councillor Janice Silvester-Hall (pictured), Cabinet Member for UKSPF at Lichfield District Council, said: “We know how important the LinkUp service is to people living in our rural communities. Extending it means we can continue to support those without access to a car or public transport and help them stay connected to essential services, employment, and social opportunities.
“It’s part of our commitment to improving transport links and reducing social isolation across the district.”
LinkUp operates as an on-demand bus service, meaning users can book their journey via an app or by phone. It’s ideal for shorter local trips and provides an essential link between villages and Lichfield city and Burntwood.
The extension follows strong demand and positive feedback from residents, particularly in areas where traditional bus services have been reduced or withdrawn.
Since the service launched, over 250 five-star reviews have been submitted through the booking system.
In addition, nearly 200 users recently took part in a customer survey, offering valuable insights, positive case studies, constructive feedback, and suggestions for new stop locations helping the council better understand how the service is being used and where it could be improved.
For more information on how to use the LinkUp service or to make a booking, visit LinkUp bus service – Your flexible, on-demand bus service for rural villages
