Portsmouth residents are being encouraged to support small and independent businesses this Christmas season by taking part in Small Business Saturday, with the added bonus of free bus travel throughout the city.
On Saturday, 7 December 2024, Portsmouth City Council, in partnership with First Solent and Stagecoach South, is offering free bus travel across all routes in Portsmouth to celebrate the businesses that make our city unique and vibrant.
The day will feature a Small Business Saturday Market on Commercial Road, where a variety of local makers, creators, and independent retailers will showcase their products. This will run alongside the city’s annual Christmas Market, creating a festive atmosphere and a perfect opportunity to shop locally for holiday gifts.
The free bus travel is part of the Portsmouth Bus Service Improvement Plan (BSIP), a £48 million initiative that is transforming the city’s public transport network. This scheme, which runs until 2026, aims to make bus travel more accessible, efficient, and environmentally friendly, whilst reducing traffic congestion and boosting air quality for everyone.
Cllr Peter Candlish, Cabinet Member for Transport at Portsmouth City Council, said:
“We are thrilled to offer free bus travel again this year to help residents get out and support local businesses on Small Business Saturday. Independent shops and traders are the heart of our local economy, and this initiative is a great way to shine a light on them during the festive season. It’s also an ideal opportunity for residents to experience the ease and convenience of bus travel across Portsmouth.”
Simon Goff, Managing Director of First Solent, said:
“Supporting our local community is so important to us, and we’re proud to help people travel for free by bus on Small Business Saturday. Whether you’re a regular bus user, or you haven’t been on a bus for years, I’d urge you to make the most of this initiative. As well as it being a great way to come and enjoy the best of small and independent businesses in Portsmouth, taking the bus is a greener, more sustainable way to travel.”
Marc Reddy, Managing Director of Stagecoach South, added:
“Stagecoach South is delighted to support Small Business Saturday. By offering free bus travel across the city, we hope to make it easier for residents to discover and support the incredible independent businesses that make Portsmouth unique. This initiative aligns with our ongoing commitment to supporting our local communities, encouraging local shopping, and reducing environmental impact during the festive season.”
For more information about free bus travel on Small Business Saturday and to plan your journey, visit: https://travel.portsmouth.gov.uk/public-transport/small-business-saturday-2024/