PEOPLE living in The Westmorland Messenger area are set to benefit from a new community transport scheme being launched today (Wednesday, April 16) at Newton Rigg.

The Eden Brokerage, operated by North Cumbria Community Transport, is a minibus-sharing scheme that offers affordable and accessible transport to community groups with a transport need, and ensures that buses are used to their full potential for the good of the community.

Coun Kevan Wilkinson, Cumbria County Council spokesman for transport, was due to help launch the scheme.

He said: "Community transport is a priority for CCC and we have worked with a number of organisations to ensure that individuals and community groups in rural areas across the county have access to transport through brokerage schemes and voluntary car schemes.

"I am delighted that we are now in a position to help set up a brokerage scheme in Eden. There are already a number of excellent transport schemes in the area and this new project will build on what already exists, extending community transport in Eden.

"Brokerage schemes not only offer affordable and accessible transport to groups with a need, they also ensure that community vehicles are used to their full potential, minimising the amount of time they are unused and providing an income to those groups."

The brokerage scheme is available to non-profit-making groups involved in social welfare, education, religion, recreation or any other activity of benefit to the community.

Vehicles can either be made available for self-drive basis, or with a volunteer driver.

CCC has already funded a number of vehicles in partnership with the Countryside Agency and other organisations and it is hoped that these vehicles will take part in the scheme.

A new project coordinator has been appointed for the scheme. Barrie Tye will be managing the scheme from the new centre, which has been set up in Newton Rigg.

As well as coordinating the scheme, he is also available to provide community groups with information and advice on transport issues including insurance, legislation, driver training and purchasing a minibus.

Any community group wishing to register a minibus with the scheme or who has a transport need should contact the coordinator on 01768-868118.

April 16, 2003 09:00