WNC – Community Transport

1) Use of the four former Ability CIC minibuses to be repurposed by the Council

You may be aware that Ability CIC was not a Council‑run service, and the decision to cease operating on 13 April 2026 was made independently of the Council. In response, we have stepped in to work closely with our parishes and local transport providers to identify solutions for residents affected by the closure.

We are now inviting expressions of interest on behalf of the community to help secure new providers for as many routes and demand‑responsive services as possible. Several parishes and transport companies are already in contact with us.

If your town or parish would  like to find out more, please email us at communitygrants@westnorthants.gov.uk with any questions, suggestions, or offers of support.

If you are interested in one or more of the former four Ability minibuses, please email communitygrants@westnorthants.gov.uk outlining  your proposed use, the frequency of that use, proposed routes, and a realistic estimate of the anticipated user numbers.

We are also gathering important information about:

• Residents who now have urgent transport needs
• Community groups and volunteers who want to offer support
• Any gaps in local transport that need to be included in future planning

If you can assist with this, please email the details to communitygrants@westnorthants.gov.uk

2) Applying for a Community Transport Grant

We are also encouraging local groups and parish councils to apply for a share of the £172,000 funding pot available for community transport grants, which aims to increase the number of transport options available, especially in rural areas and places where there are no regular bus services. The grants will support projects that help people to:

• Reach work, training, school, health appointments and social activities
• Stay connected with their local community
• Travel safely with trained drivers who understand their needs
• Reduce loneliness and live more independently
• Use shared transport that is better for the environment and helps cut traffic
• Find affordable travel options if they do not have access to a car

Community groups, faith groups, social enterprises are also encouraged alongside  town and parish councils to apply for the grants, with full details available on our Community Funding Grants web page . The deadline for grant applications is 10am on 24 April 2026.