Significant changes are now in effect for the popular Ring and Ride service in Birmingham and Solihull, marking a major shift towards a more integrated transport network for the region.
A Unified On-Demand Service for the West Midlands
The previously separate Ring and Ride service for Birmingham and Solihull has been merged with Coventry's On Demand operations. They now form a single, unified network known as West Midlands Bus On Demand. The new service is being operated by the company Via, with the stated aim of simplifying the system and improving the journey for all passengers.
West Midlands Mayor, Andy Street, has championed the move, stating the integration is designed to secure "affordable, high quality and accessible transport" for those who rely on these vital services. The overhaul focuses on boosting both operational efficiency and the overall passenger experience.
New Fleet and Continued Regional Access
A visible upgrade for users is the introduction of a new fleet of smaller, more agile vehicles. These modern buses are intended to provide greater flexibility on the road and improve the efficiency of the service. A key benefit of the new design is that it allows wheelchair users to travel together, enhancing the social aspect of the service.
Importantly, core aspects of the old service remain protected for eligible users:
- Service hours have been kept unchanged, ensuring reliability for existing passengers who depend on the bus at specific times.
- Anyone who was eligible for the former Ring & Ride scheme retains their access to travel across the wider West Midlands region, not just their immediate locality.
Separate Changes for the Black Country
In a parallel development, the Ring and Ride service covering the Black Country area has undergone a separate change. This contract has been awarded to a different operator, HATS (Hackney Area Transport Services). This new arrangement for the Black Country also came into force this week, alongside the Birmingham and Solihull changes.
These combined updates represent a substantial reorganisation of accessible, on-demand transport across the West Midlands. The goal is a more coherent network, though the ultimate test will be how the changes are received by the communities that use these essential services daily.
