Dial-a-Ride gets a buzz with all new electric minibus

Newtown & District Dial-a-Ride has officially launched a brand-new electric minibus, made possible through a £70,000 funding boost from the former UK Government’s Levelling Up Fund in partnership with Cultivate. 

The introduction of the state-of-the-art electric vehicle marks a significant milestone in the organisation's commitment to sustainable and accessible community transport for elderly, disabled, and vulnerable residents in Newtown and the surrounding areas.

The new minibus will not only enhance the Dial-a-Ride service but will also be available as part of a broader community minibus share and hire scheme. This initiative aims to extend affordable, wheelchair-accessible transport to local groups and organisations.

A special unveiling event was held at the Dial-a-Ride office in Newtown, attended by local representatives, including Mr Russell George, Member of the Senedd for Montgomeryshire. The event showcased the vehicle's role in supporting community transport needs and highlighted the collaborative effort that secured the funding.

Mr Steve Evans, Manager of Newtown & District Dial-a-Ride, expressed gratitude for the extensive community support that made the project a reality.

“Newtown Dial-a-Ride is excited to be partnering with Cultivate on this joint project and hopes it is the first of many local collaborations. We, together with Cultivate, would like to thank and acknowledge the key contributors who provided and distributed the funding: the UK Government’s Levelling Up Fund, Powys Association of Voluntary Organisations (PAVO), Powys County Council, and Growing Mid Wales.”

Mr Evans also acknowledged additional contributions, including a £2,000 grant from The Gwendoline and Margaret Davies Charity to cover annual safety checks on all vehicles, including the new electric minibus. Furthermore, Newtown & Llanllwchaiarn Town Council awarded £1,000 to fund the first year’s insurance for the vehicle. Special thanks were extended to Mr Nick Burdekin of Cultivate for his vital role in securing the funding.

Following the launch event, Mr Russell George praised the initiative:

“I congratulate the Newtown & District Dial-a-Ride team on securing the funding in collaboration with Cultivate. It was fantastic to be part of celebrating this achievement. This is great news for Newtown and the surrounding community.

Newtown & District Dial-a-Ride provides essential transport services for people of all ages, particularly those in ill health or with disabilities. The addition of the new electric minibus ensures the organisation can continue its invaluable service while supporting a more sustainable future.”

The new vehicle is now fully operational, offering a greener, more efficient transport option for residents and community groups in the area.