DalesBus

DalesBus – providing sustainable transport to and around the Dales

DalesBus is the registered trademark and ‘day to day’ name of the Dales and Bowland Community Interest Company (D&BCIC). Friends of the Dales set up this volunteer-run, not-for-profit social enterprise in 2007. We act as a ‘parent charity’, providing office and financial support and we pass across donations and Gift Aid.

DalesBus supports our charity’s vision of a ‘sustainable future for the Dales’. By working with partners such as bus and rail operators, community transport groups, local authorities and businesses, DalesBus provides sustainable transport to and around Yorkshire Dales National Park and neighbouring countryside.  

DalesBus is run by a voluntary board of unpaid Directors. These committed volunteers agree the routes, timetables, fares, ticketing, marketing, fundraising and management of the network. This includes approximately 14 bus services on Sundays and Bank Holidays in the summer, and a smaller provision over winter. DalesBus does not own or operate any vehicles. Rather, all services are competitively tendered from local commercial operators to ensure best value-for-money.

For details of bus and train services in the Dales visit DalesBus.  

Business Model

DalesBus aims to fill the gaps where commercial services are not viable, such as Sundays and Bank Holidays. This enables people living in big towns and cities in West Yorkshire, Lancashire and the North East to reach the Yorkshire Dales National Park, the Forest of Bowland and Nidderdale (both AONBs) without using a car.

Since the social enterprise was set up in 2007, more than 500,000 passenger journeys have been made on DalesBus services.

Funding

The cost of running the DalesBus services isn’t fully covered by fares and reimbursements from concessionary passes. The network needs to secure approximately £150,000 of grants, donations and sponsorship every year. Funding is sought from West Yorkshire Combined Authority (Metro) and by sponsorship from businesses, grants from charities, donations from individuals, user groups and parish/town councils. To support this vital service, with a donation or sponsorship, contact DalesBus.

Volunteers

More volunteers are always needed. There are lots of tasks like designing and distributing publicity, updating bus stop displays, helping with surveys, fundraising and publicity events. If you’d like to volunteer, please get in touch via the DalesBus website.