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300 communities win share of £25 million minibus fund

Bus & Coach
More than 300 local charities and community groups across England are now to receive new minibuses from the DfT’s (Department for Transport) £25 million Community Transport Minibus Fund.

The funding will help elderly residents, people with learning and physical disabilities and those who do not have access to a commercial bus service, says Transport Secretary Patrick McLoughlin.

"I know first-hand how important transport providers like these can be to keep rural areas alive and protect the independence of local residents," states McLoughlin.

"This £25 million fund will buy over 300 new vehicles, some specially adapted, to help these organisations continue to carry out their important work in the community," he adds.

Winners from across the UK will each receive a nine- to 16-seater minibus tailored to their requirements - such as engineered for disability-friendly access and adapted seating.

The Department for Transport announced the funding and criteria last November (2014) and invited applications until January 291.

Following this first round of allocations, the DfT will next look to using the fund to support additional schemes this summer.

A full list of successful applications – sorted by region – can be viewed by clicking the link below.

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