Portsmouth has introduced Pompey Link, a revolutionary on-demand transport service connecting Paulsgrove and Port Solent areas. Most journeys cost just £2, with the shared minibus service operating Monday to Saturday.
The innovative transport solution combines elements of traditional bus services with taxi-style convenience, offering residents an entirely new way to travel within the city.
Pompey Link operates between 9am and 7pm, Monday through Saturday, providing affordable connectivity to areas previously underserved by public transport. Passengers can book journeys through the dedicated Book a Journey app, online portal, or by telephoning 0333 015 1271.
The shared minibus service picks up passengers from designated bus stops, with the possibility of collecting additional travellers heading in similar directions during the journey.
Community First operates the service under funding from Portsmouth City Council through the Portsmouth Bus Service Improvement Plan (BSIP). The initiative will run as a 10-month pilot programme, concluding at the end of March 2026.
Service Coverage
The transport network covers two primary zones. Passengers in Paulsgrove can travel to and from Port Solent, whilst Port Solent residents can access stops in Paulsgrove, Cosham Interchange, Queen Alexandra Hospital, and North Harbour.
The service provides crucial connectivity to Cosham Interchange, enabling passengers to transfer to other bus and rail services for wider regional travel.
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Accessibility and Pricing
The service welcomes all passengers aged 10 and above, with children under 10 travelling free when accompanied by a fare-paying adult. Young people between 10-19 may travel unaccompanied and can bring up to two children under 10.
Wheelchair users can access the fully accessible minibuses, which accommodate both manual and electric wheelchairs. Guide dogs and service dogs are permitted on board.
Concessionary bus pass holders travel free of charge. Standard adult fares range from £1 to £2.50 depending on the journey, with reduced rates for children over 10.
Payment options include cash, contactless cards, or advance payment through the booking app.
Booking System
Passengers can book journeys on-demand or up to four days in advance. The first-come, first-served system encourages early booking during peak periods.
The Book a Journey app provides real-time updates on vehicle location and estimated arrival times. Telephone bookings are available through Community First between 9am and 4.30pm, Monday to Friday.
Group bookings accommodate up to four people, with journey cancellations or modifications permitted until 10 minutes before departure.
For service enquiries, lost property, or booking assistance, passengers should contact Community First on 0333 015 1271.
Further information is available at: https://travel.portsmouth.gov.uk/drt/
