Bus Services for University of Portsmouth

The University of Portsmouth is seeking a provider for a pay-to-use bus service aimed at facilitating transportation for its staff and students. This service will connect the main university campus in Portsmouth city center during term time and for special weekend and event services. The goal is to offer a reliable and low-emission bus service that encourages staff and students to use public transport instead of personal vehicles, thereby improving air quality and enhancing community safety, especially for local school children. The contract is set to commence on September 1, 2025, and will last for three years until August 31, 2028, with an option to extend for two additional one-year periods, potentially extending the contract until August 31, 2030. The supplier will need to operate two main bus routes: 1. **U1 Route**: A circular route in Southsea, running Monday to Friday during term time, in an anti-clockwise direction, starting at Kings Theatre and covering key student and staff housing areas. 2. **U2 Route**: This route will operate Monday to Friday during term time, providing transport from the city center campus to Langstone sports pitches. Given the nature of university activities, demand for bus services will vary throughout the day, with peak times in the early morning and late afternoon, as well as increased demand at the start of the academic year and during university or student union events. The supplier must be prepared to accommodate these fluctuations by providing flexible services, which may include additional vehicles outside the standard timetable and for specific events in the university calendar.