Young people in Rugeley can access the town's leisure centre free of charge until 31 August by presenting a bus ticket on the day of their visit.
The offer applies to children's fare bus tickets and is part of a Staffordshire County Council transport pilot scheme. The council is using the initiative to understand how people use bus services and identify improvements to enhance connectivity, reliability and accessibility across the county.
How to use the offer
To access the free leisure centre pass, young people must sign up online before travelling. They should enter 'bus travel' in the Extra information box on the Everyone Active webpage. On arrival at Rugeley Leisure Centre, they present a valid bus ticket for that day to gain access to facilities including the gym and swimming pool.
Support the transport review
Staffordshire County Council has launched a public survey alongside the leisure centre offer. The transport team is seeking feedback on how people travel locally and what changes would encourage greater bus use. Results from the survey will help shape improvements that reflect local priorities.
Rugeley and the surrounding area was selected for the trial because it provides the right balance of size and potential new bus users. With new housing planned for the town, demand for bus services is expected to increase. The council notes that most residents live within a 30-minute bus journey of the town centre, and many households do not have access to a car.
Andrew Mynors, Cabinet Member for Connectivity at Staffordshire County Council, said improved connectivity by providing convenient and cost-effective transport options is a priority. He added that the leisure centre offer is a way of connecting with people and getting them involved in shaping public transport improvements.
Members of the public can complete the survey online to help shape future bus service improvements in their town.
