Launched last year to improve connections in the north of the city, the popular mini-bus service now runs between Port Solent and any bus stop in the Cosham ward, as well as existing stops in Paulsgrove.

In addition to QA Hospital and Cosham Interchange, the shared service will also now stop at Hilsea Lido for those travelling from Port Solent. Passengers will be able to travel to Tesco North Harbour from Port Solent or any bus stop in Paulsgrove or Cosham as well.

The pilot project, now funded by the Portsmouth City Council’s Bus Service Improvement Plan until March 2027, is operated by local charity Community First.

Cllr Peter Candlish, Cabinet Member for Transport, said: “Pompey Link offers a convenient, affordable and fully accessible way to travel to Port Solent from Paulsgrove, and now Cosham too.

“It improves and complements existing transport options, and can also be a vital, inclusive link between Port Solent and QA Hospital or Hilsea Lido.

“I’m delighted that, as part of the service, our friendly, helpful team of drivers have received a five out of five customer rating.

“The Pompey Link pilot is an excellent example of how we are always working to make travel easier and better for everyone in the city.” 

Georgia, who lives in Paulsgrove and is a manager at Odeon cinema in Port Solent, agrees: “There are about four regular drivers, and they’re all lovely.

“I’ve never had delays or missed pick-ups. Pompey Link is always reliable. I just go on the app, book my trip, and the bus turns up when it says it will. It’s so convenient.”

Pompey Link minibuses are open to everyone. They are wheelchair accessible, and passengers can travel with a folding pushchair or car seat for babies. Service dogs are also welcome on board.

Trips can be booked through the Book a Journey app or on 0333 015 1271 (Monday to Friday 8am – 4pm).

The service now operates with the extended hours of Monday to Wednesday: 8.45am – 7.15pm, Thursday to Saturday: 8.45am – 9pm and Sundays: 10am – 5pm (excluding bank holidays).

Georgia added: “Getting to work was really difficult. There’s no public transport that goes to Port Solent and, because I don’t drive, I had to walk or pay for taxis.

“Pompey Link has made such a difference. It’s affordable, easy, and it means I can get to work without worrying about the cost or the time.

“I don’t know what I’d do without it!”

It couldn’t be a better time to give Pompey Link a try with the service taking part in the government’s free bus journeys for 5–15 year-olds throughout August. Those people travelling with a Portsmouth City Council concessionary bus pass are also always able to travel for free.