New rural transport service launched in Limavady
Thursday, 4 September 2008
Limavady Rural Transport launch the new Dial-A-Lift service. Pictured are Ounagh Callan, Felim Curran, Billy Moore, Limavady Mayor Brenda Chivers, Tony McConnell from the DRD and Emma Mullan.
MORE people in rural Limavady can access the right transport at the right time through the new Dial-a-Lift transport service being provided through Roe Valley Rural Transport.
Dial-a-Lift provides transport from your home to where you need to go - and back home again. The service is for people who live in rural areas who find it difficult or are unable to use public transport.
Dial-a-Lift services will operate seven days a week from 8am to 6pm and will be delivered by Roe Valley Rural Transport, using a variety of vehicle including minibuses, volunteer's cars and local taxi operators.
To use this service you must become a member of Roe Valley Rural Transport and register for the Dial-a-Lift service.
Call the Roe Valley Rural Transport office for more information. There is some criteria which needs to be met, such as: you must live in a rural area and find difficulty accessing services due to lack of transport. Everyday services include transport to doctor's and health centre appointments, the pharmacy, the hairdresser's, the post office or church.
The service may also be used to access training or recreational opportunities or even just to visit family or friends.
Billy Moore, Manager of Roe Valley Rural Transport said: "I am delighted to roll out this much-needed programme of transport in the Limavady Borough. The Dial-a-Lift transport will provide a lifeline for those who live in a rural area where transport is not easily accessed. Give me a call and I will provide you with a transport solution."
Oonagh McCallan, Rural CT Liason Officer with the Community Transport Association commented: "This is a rural transport project funded by the Department for Regional Development's Rural Transport Fund. The programme is aimed at meeting the individual's transport needs in rural areas.
“This new service combines a range of transport resources to ensure that the passengers have flexible travel options in the rural community. I am delighted that Dial-a-Lift projects are being delivered using community transport providers such as Roe Valley Community Transport. Community Transport is run by and for the local community, is a charity and non-profit making. This means that more of the programme funds will be used to provide actual passenger trips, making the service as cost-effective as possible.
“ Dial-a-Lift provides transport at a time to suit you, taking you where you need to go. Transport is provided by professional, qualified drivers who have a customer, rather than timetable, focus.
“It's a different way to travel. Dial-a-Lift passengers will enjoy their journey knowing that they are being given a great service by an organisation that cares about their needs."
The Mayor of Limavady, Councillor Brenda Chivers said: "Limavady is very fortunate that Roe Valley Rural Transport has been selected to participate in this pilot and being here today allows me to express publicly the Council's appreciation of the valuable contribution that Roe Valley Rural Transport makes to improving the quality of life for the people of the Borough.
