A new bus service has secured almost £1 million more funding after a successful launch. 

Carousel Buses has announced £825,000 more funding for its ‘Uber-style’ minibus service PickMeUp.

The demand responsive ride-sharing service launched in September last year after a partnership between Carousel and Buckinghamshire Council.

Passengers can summon a bus to a virtual stop in the High Wycombe area using an app or a telephone booking system and travel to a destination of their choice.

Bucks Free Press: The area in High Wycombe where PickMeUp currently operatesThe area in High Wycombe where PickMeUp currently operates (Image: Carousel Buses)

Carousel Buses managing director Luke Marion said: “PickMeUp continues to go from strength to strength and is a fantastic example of how demand-responsive transport can play a key role in improving air quality and traffic congestion in the UK in conjunction with traditional bus services. 

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“We have an extensive bus network in High Wycombe, but there are some areas our traditional service can’t serve due to demand, or location, and PickMeUp has helped fill the gaps.

“The passenger numbers continue to rise, and with plans to expand the operating zone, we are proud to have invested in the service.

“The support from Buckinghamshire Council and the Department for Transport has been excellent and has made this exciting new mode of public transport possible in High Wycombe.”

The money will be spent on upgrading and expanding the fleet with eight new ultra-low emission and wheelchair accessible mini buses.