COMMUTERS will be able to park for free and take an electric bus into the centre of town thanks to a new service in Taunton – starting tomorrow (Wednesday, February 11).

The county’s first park and bus facility is opening at the Orchard Grove development, in Comeytrowe, with buses running in to the centre of Taunton.

Commuters using the service can park for free at the 200-space car park at Orchard Grove, which has already been used by residents, but is now open to the public.

Services on offer are the commercially operated 22, 22A and X22 routes, operating to and from Wellington and Taunton, with normal fares applying.

Somerset Council said the service would complement Taunton’s two park-and-ride services, from Silk Mills and Taunton Gateway.

Councillor Richard Wilkins, lead member for transport and waste, said: “People can park up and jump on a scheduled bus that will take them into the centre of our county town.

“This service is convenient, avoids the need to find a town centre parking space and helps reduce our carbon footprint. We want to make bus travel more attractive and a real alternative to the private car.

“I am grateful to our Orchard Grove Consortium partners for their support in turning an ambition into reality.”

Peter Sadler, managing director of Vistry Southwest, part of the Orchard Grove Consortium, added: “We’re delighted that the park and bus facility we developed is now opening at Orchard Grove. This represents a significant milestone and demonstrates our commitment to creating a modern, sustainable community with excellent transport connections.

“The facility will benefit not only our growing number of residents but also the wider area, providing convenient access to public transport. We’re proud to have worked alongside Somerset Council to deliver this innovative transport solution.”

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