A new Watford Shopper Bus for vulnerable people is set to launch in Watford after Arriva cut its Click service in the town.

Available from January 2, it aims to make shopping more accessible for people who need extra support – such as those with mobility challenges, social anxiety or other vulnerabilities.

The borough council and local organisation Communities 1st are delivering the service, which is bookable up to three months in advance and costs £6 per person for a return trip. Accompanying carers will pay £1 per trip.

Watford Observer: The new Watford Shopper Bus service is designed to help vulnerable people.The new Watford Shopper Bus service is designed to help vulnerable people. (Image: Watford Borough Council)

The bus will run in Woodside, Meriden, Stanborough, Leggatts, Tudor and Callowland wards on Mondays, taking people to Asda and Sainsbury’s. On Tuesdays, it will cover Nascot, Park, Central, Oxhey, Vicarage, and Holywell wards, travelling to Aldi, Lidl and Tesco.

Watford mayor Peter Taylor said: “I am delighted we are able to bring the Shopper Bus service to Watford, giving people who may need a little extra help a safe and welcoming way to travel to local shops. 

“Communities 1st runs similar services in other areas so understand the importance of making sure the Watford service is safe and reliable and can meet the needs of our residents.”

Stephen Craker, Communities 1st chief executive, said the company is looking forward to operating in Watford, adding: “Our service caters to individual requirements, ensuring a comfortable and safe shopping experience.

Watford Observer: The Watford Shopper Bus service is set to launch in January. The Watford Shopper Bus service is set to launch in January. (Image: Watford Borough Council)

“We like to think the bus is more than just transport; it's a way to meet new people, engage with your community and enjoy the simple pleasure of shopping.”

To book a journey, residents can call the Communities 1st team on 01727 649930 or email travel@communities1st.org.uk. The team will guide people through a "simple" registration process, which costs £10, and make any bookings.

The new service comes after ArrivaClick was axed from December 31 due to a lack of users making it no longer financially viable, according to the bus company.

A Freedom of Information request to Watford Borough Council revealed the local authority shelled out more than £1.53 million on the scheme, which had been used by 88,344 passengers since it started in July 2020 – working out as £17.36 per ride.