A New Way to Travel: go-too

By Cheshire East Council

Cheshire East Council launched go-too, the new flexible bus service designed to help residents access shopping, healthcare, social activities and other everyday journeys while staying connected to their communities.

The local transport service allows residents to book journeys via an app or telephone and is designed to complement existing public transport, particularly in areas where traditional bus services may be limited.

go-too was first established as a pilot in Nantwich in 2021 and has received a hugely positive response from passengers. One resident said: “While recovering from a stroke I began to use the go-too bus to get around locally. It was an absolute godsend, giving me back a sense of independence, I would never have been able to achieve without it.”

Another added: “It’s affordable, easy to book on the app and convenient. The drivers are friendly and patient and when you call the office with a query, they are so helpful.”

The pilot was funded by the Department for Transport and following its success in Nantwich, has now been expanded across the whole of Cheshire East, including Congleton and the surrounding areas.

go-too offers a flexible way to travel, with journeys planned around passenger requests, helping connect people to key destinations across Cheshire East while supporting more sustainable travel choices.

Councillor Mark Goldsmith, Cheshire East Council’s cabinet member for highways and transport, said: “The launch of our expanded go-too service marks an important step in improving access to transport for residents across Cheshire East.

“The service is designed to support people in areas where public transport options are limited, providing a flexible travel option that helps residents stay independent and connected to their communities while reducing social isolation.

“As well as extending coverage across the borough, the service now includes evening and Saturday journeys, providing greater flexibility for passengers.

“We’re committed to providing transport solutions that complement existing bus services and help residents remain connected to their communities.”

The expanded service operates from 9.30am to 2.30pm and 4.30pm to 9pm, Monday to Friday, and from 9am to 6pm on Saturdays, providing new evening and weekend travel opportunities for passengers across the borough.

Single fares are £4 for passengers aged 16 and over and £2 for under-16s, while concessionary bus pass holders can travel free of charge. Door-to-door support also remains available for eligible passengers.

The expansion has been made possible through Bus Service Improvement Plan (BSIP) funding and forms part of the council’s wider commitment to improving sustainable and accessible transport options across Cheshire East.

Congleton residents can book on-demand bus journeys through the go-too app.

Residents can download the go-too app, visit www.go-too.co.uk or call 0300 123 5103 to find out more and book journeys.