First Solent Continues to Operate Portsmouth Park & Ride Service

First Solent has secured the contract to continue operating the Park & Ride service in Portsmouth, a role it has held since the service began in 2014. This extension ensures that travelers will maintain a reliable transport link between the Tipner Park & Ride site and the centre of Portsmouth, with buses running every 15 minutes.

For travelers, this development means easy and affordable access to Portsmouth’s key attractions. The Park & Ride service connects directly to the city centre, the historic dockyard, and Gunwharf Quays, reaching The Hard transport interchange in less than 15 minutes. Ticket prices remain at £4 for up to five people, allowing visitors to travel without the hassle of city centre parking.

Portsmouth’s Park & Ride service offers over a quarter of a million passengers annually a greener and more sustainable way to explore the city. The Euro6 buses used for the service comply with Portsmouth’s Clean Air Zone standards, contributing to the city's efforts to maintain cleaner air and reduce congestion.

The city's attractions are a major draw for tourists traveling by bus. The historic dockyard is home to famous ships like HMS Victory and the Mary Rose, easily accessible from the Park & Ride. The Spinnaker Tower, offering panoramic views, and the D-Day Museum, providing insights into wartime history, are also conveniently reached. Southsea Castle and South Parade Pier are popular spots for visitors.

First Solent’s operation of the Park & Ride service includes support for local projects like the Farlington Marshes wildlife initiative and engaging with local schools and colleges. The contract also provides six Real Living Wage job opportunities for local drivers and offers apprenticeship positions.

For those planning a visit to Portsmouth, the Park & Ride service remains an important part of the travel experience, ensuring that navigating the city is convenient, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly. As the city continues to grow as a tourist destination, services like this will help manage traffic and enhance the overall visitor experience.