Record-breaking summer for Portsmouth Park and Ride as cleaner travel takes off
September 17, 2025
Portsmouth Park and Ride has achieved its highest-ever August passenger numbers, showing its vital role in reducing car traffic, improving air quality, and boosting the city’s economy.
“We’ve repositioned Park and Ride to reflect how people travel today,” said Paul Walker, Head of Passenger Transport, at Portsmouth City Council. “It’s not just about commuting anymore, it’s about making it easy for people to enjoy the city without the hassle of parking or the impact of emissions. And the numbers show it’s working.”
This summer, over 78,000 passenger trips were made in July and August alone, bringing the service back to 2018 passenger levels, a milestone few UK public transport services have yet to reach post-pandemic. This success comes from targeted marketing, clear communication, and a reliable, welcoming experience, backed by a dedicated team of bus drivers and support staff.
Park and Ride has helped thousands reach Portsmouth’s biggest summer events, including Sail GP, Southsea Food Festival, and the Kite Festival, without adding to congestion or pollution. By intercepting car journeys, the service is directly contributing to cleaner air in the city.
“Portsmouth Park and Ride is more than just a way to get into the city, it’s a cleaner, smarter, often cheaper alternative to driving”, said Cllr Peter Candlish, Cabinet Member for Transport at Portsmouth City Council. “This summer’s success shows how much of a difference it can make. Thanks to our fantastic team, passengers enjoy a smooth, friendly journey from parking to arrival. It’s a service that’s helping us breathe easier and boost our local economy.”
Portsmouth Park and Ride passengers benefit from:
- Group and family-friendly fares
- Flexible payment options, including app-based and on-bus purchases
- Staff-supported parking during busy weekends
- Hop-on, hop-off access to key destinations
The success of Portsmouth Park and Ride is built on a strong partnership between Portsmouth City Council and First Bus Solent. This “one-team” approach has enabled agile improvements and a consistently high-quality passenger experience.
Peter Matthews, Commercial Development Manager at First Bus Solent, said: “We’re proud to work in close partnership with Portsmouth City Council to deliver a service that’s reliable, welcoming, and makes a real difference to the city. Our drivers and support teams are passionate about providing a great experience, and it’s fantastic to see that reflected in the growing passenger numbers.”
With future plans to electrify the fleet and expand service integration, Portsmouth Park and Ride continues to prove that well-designed public transport delivers real environmental and economic benefits.