Thousands of bus users in Fenland, East Cambridgeshire and South Cambridgeshire can now access the trail blazing ‘Tiger on Demand’ service which was trialled in Huntingdonshire. The new zones officially launched on Saturday 11 January near Whittlesey with Dr Nik Johnson, Mayor of Cambridgeshire and Peterborough and Deputy Mayor Cllr Anna Smith taking a Tiger on Demand journey to highlight the service’s benefits.
A Game-Changer for Rural Transport
Tiger on Demand is a demand-responsive transport service designed to connect rural communities with vital amenities, public transport links, and neighbouring towns.
“Building on the success of its predecessor, Ting, the service introduces several enhancements, including virtual bus stops, an improved booking app and competitive fares,” said Mayor Dr Johnson.
“Tiger on Demand is a vital step in our mission to improve rural connectivity and make public transport more accessible, sustainable, and inclusive.
“This service provides a lifeline for residents in areas where traditional bus routes aren’t viable, and I’m thrilled to see it expanding to more communities.
“My journey on Saturday showed how easy and convenient it is, and I encourage everyone to give it a try.”
New Zones and Features
Tiger on Demand – which is an expanded and improved version of The Ting service in Huntingdonshire – now serves three new areas:
- Fenland: Including towns such as March and the surrounding villages.
- East Cambridgeshire: Covering areas like Ely and Littleport.
- South Cambridgeshire: Serving communities including Cambourne, Longstowe and Papworth Everard.
Key Features of the Service
- Virtual Bus Stops: Passengers can book journeys between designated virtual stops, improving coverage while avoiding overlap with fixed routes.
- Flexible Booking Options: Residents can book via the Tiger on Demand app or call the customer service line at 01480 595 440 (available Monday to Saturday, 6am to 7:30pm).
- Operating Hours: The service runs Monday to Saturday from 6:30am to 7pm, ensuring reliable transport for work, education, and leisure.
- Affordable Fares: Prices start at just £1 for children and £2 for adults. Concession holders and Tiger Pass users benefit from free or discounted travel.
- Convenient App: The Tiger on Demand app enables users to view virtual stops, plan journeys, and provide feedback directly.
How to Access Tiger on Demand
Residents can book their journeys easily through the Tiger on Demand app, available to download now on the Play Store and App Store.
For those without access to a smartphone, the dedicated call centre is on hand to assist with bookings and information.
A Vision for Sustainable and Accessible Transport
“The launch of these new zones underscores the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority’s commitment to creating a more connected and equitable transport network,” said a spokesperson for the Combined Authority.
“Tiger on Demand ensures that even the most rural communities can benefit from modern, efficient public transport.”
For more information about Tiger on Demand, including fares, virtual stops, and service updates, visit https://transport.cambridgeshirepeterborough-ca.gov.uk/buses/tiger-on-demand
How much does it cost?
The costs per journey are as follows:
• Adults £2 per journey – Please choose the ‘Adult’ fare option when booking.
• Under 5s travel for FREE – Please choose the ‘Infant’ fare option when booking.
• Children aged 5-16 £1 per journey – Please choose the ‘Youth’ fare option when booking.
• Concessionary Bus Pass Holders and Disability Bus Pass holders travel for FREE – Please choose the ‘Senior’ or ‘Person with disability’ fare option when booking and show your pass to the driver when you board.
• Tiger Pass Holders £1 per journey – Please ask for the ‘Reduced’ fare option when booking and show your pass to the driver when you board.
The Tiger on Demand service began in December, replacing the previous Ting bus, was initially available to residents West Huntingdonshire.
Partnering for Success
The launch of Tiger on Demand has been made possible through a collaboration with WeMove, who provide the vehicles for the service, and Spare, the technology partner behind the user-friendly booking app.
A representative from WeMove said: “We’re so excited to see the launch of the brand-new DRT service Tiger on Demand, created in partnership with Cambridgeshire & Peterborough Combined Authority.
“This innovative service, developed in partnership with Spare, A2B Travel, Dews Coaches and Thames Valley Transport aims to provide flexible and accessible transport options for residents and to meet the evolving needs of the community across the district.
“WeMove are proud to have played a key role in bringing Tiger on Demand to life and look forward to seeing its positive impact on the community.”
A representative from Spare said: “Spare is proud to support Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority in delivering their vision for a more connected and accessible public transport network.
“With Tiger on Demand, we’re helping to bring flexible, reliable, and technology-driven transport to residents, ensuring rural communities have the mobility they need to thrive.”
The service operates Monday to Saturday from 6:30am to 7:00pm, providing residents with flexible travel options throughout the day.
Improving Connectivity in Rural Communities
Tiger On Demand has been designed to fill critical gaps in public transport, especially in rural communities where traditional bus routes may not be viable.
By offering a responsive service based on resident demand, the service ensures that more people can access essential services and opportunities.