Route 44 Bus Expansion

A growing community bus service is expanding once again, strengthening vital local travel links and giving residents greater freedom to travel when and where they need to.

Route 44 is operated by Community First, a charity delivering community transport solutions designed around local need. Built on a community transport concept, the service exists to ensure local people can access essential shops, services, healthcare and social opportunities, particularly where conventional commercial services may not fully meet demand. With passenger numbers steadily increasing, the service extended into Valley Park from 2nd March, creating stronger links between Chandlers Ford, Valley Park and Eastleigh Bus Station.

The service operates using a hub and spoke approach, linking local neighbourhoods into key transport hubs and onward travel opportunities. Residents can connect at Chandlers Ford Precinct, Chestnut Avenue ASDA and Fryern Arcade with the Blue Star 1 service for travel to Winchester and Southampton. At Templars Way, passengers can access the Blue Star 5 service towards Romsey and North Baddesley. Direct links to Eastleigh Bus and Train Stations, as well as Chandlers Ford Train Station, open up wider regional and national rail connections. This integrated approach ensures the service acts as a lifeline, connecting communities into the wider road and rail network.

The expansion was supported by funding from Chandlers Ford Parish Council and Valley Park Parish Council, alongside a grant secured through Hampshire County Council’s Community Led Transport Grant Stream which is funded by UK Government’s Bus Service Improvement Plan funding. Sponsorship from Ampfield Meadows has provided further backing.

Cllr Alan Dowden, Chairman of Valley Park Parish Council welcomed the extension as a practical and sustainable step forward, noting that improved connectivity strengthens community cohesion and supports residents of all ages.