ArrivaClick launches in Watford

ArrivaClick has launched in Watford. The demand responsive minibus service will be phased in, complying with government guidance and scaled up as the restrictions around COVID-19 are lifted.

Subsidised by Watford Borough Council, ArrivaClick is aimed at delivering a cost efficient mode of transport, priced between a bus and taxi fare. It can be booked and paid for via a free smartphone app.

The service uses technology from ioki, which develops smart mobility solutions. The service responds to demand from passengers and the routes they want to take, picking them up from a ‘virtual stop’ close to their starting point. It is currently running with three minibuses, at a reduced capacity of a maximum of four people at any one time. The buses will operate across the borough and to Warner Brother Studios and Croxley Park. Each bus will have comfortable seating, tables, free wifi, USB chargers and air conditioning. Journey prices range from £1 to £2.50 per mile depending on the time of day and further discounts are available to regular users via weekly passes and credit bundles. The hours of operation will be 6am to 10pm from Monday to Saturday (extending to 11pm on Friday and Saturday evenings) and 8am to 9pm on Sundays.

Adam Toone, Business Development Director at Arriva, said: “We are thrilled to see that, in partnership with Watford Borough Council, we are able to launch the ArrivaClick service. It’s really important that public transport plays a key role as lockdown measures are eased. Customers can be reassured that we’re cleaning the vehicles thoroughly, using disinfectant and ensuring social distancing measures are followed at all times. We will continuously monitor the public health guidelines and ensure that we continue to keep our drivers and customers safe. We look forward to welcoming customers on board.”

The introduction of ArrivaClick works towards the Council’s goal of becoming carbon neutral by 2030.