Somerset Commuters get a ticket to ride

More than 50,000 journeys have been made by Somerset shoppers, students and commuters on the Taunton Gateway Park and Ride since its opening in November 2009.

At a cost of around £4million, the Taunton Gateway Park and Ride is part of Somerset County Council’s vision to cut traffic congestion in Taunton. The service offers an affordable and environmentally-friendly way of travelling into the town centre.

Work began on the site in April 2009 and the finishing touches were completed at the beginning of May 2010. During this time, more than 100 people have been involved in working on the site, from archaeologists to electricians.

Around 2,300 journeys are made each week from the Taunton Gateway site.

Mark Pedlar, Somerset County Council’s Group Manager for Transporting Somerset, said: “The Taunton Gateway site has 1,000 parking spaces and a secure cycle parking area, so there is more than enough room for anyone wishing to use the service. Since opening last November we have seen a steady increase in the amount of park and ride users – we hope that this continues.”

The service runs every seven minutes at peak times and every 10 minutes at off-peak times, Monday to Saturday. The average commuter could save around £70 a month by using the new Park and Ride instead of paying to park in the town centre.

Councillor Anthony Trollope-Bellew, Somerset County Council’s Cabinet Member – Environment, said: “Our £4million investment in this scheme demonstrates Somerset County Council’s dedication to easing traffic congestion in Taunton. With frequent buses at a cost of £2.00 return, this new service represents a convenient and affordable way to travel into town.”

For more information on costs and opening times visit our Taunton Park & Ride page.