A DORSET shuttle bus service has launched to link people with nature this summer. 

The RSPB, as part of its Hyde’s Heath Project, are launching a trial shuttle bus service from Wareham Train Station to Arne nature reserve.

The service will improve access to a key part of Dorset’s special heritage and reduce the number of cars used to get to the reserve at a peak time of the year. 

The bus will operate on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays from the June 7 to August 31, 2022. 

The RSPB hope the ‘little green bus’ will help people who can’t currently access the reserve due to limited personal transport, to experience a special part of Dorset’s heritage in an affordable way.

Beverley Lagden, RSPB Hyde’s Heath project officer, said: “We’re really excited to launch our trial shuttle bus service this summer to the fantastic RSPB Arne nature reserve. Whether visitors choose to leave their cars at home, don’t have access to a vehicle, or prefer the freedom of a bus link whilst holidaying in Dorset this summer.

“With the nature and climate emergency on everyone’s agenda, we are also very aware that our visitors are looking to reduce traffic and carbon emissions by choosing public transport, and we’re thrilled to be able to help.”

The Service 2RN routes will serve Wareham train/bus station, Wareham town, Stoborough Lookout, Ridge (Sunnyside) and some services to Purbeck Park. This will enable visitors to Purbeck, as well as anyone along the south-west Weymouth to London train route or Morebus services, to access RSPB Arne.

The trial bus service is part of the RSPB Hyde’s Heath project, which began in 2019 and aims to engage people with their heritage.

The single fares are £2 per adult and £1 for under 19s per journey. National Concessionary Passes are accepted.