The Isle of Wight nightbus scheme has been recognised as an example of good practice by the Local Government Association and is now being used as an example of how partnership working can transform communities.

The Island’s nightbus scheme is held up as a prime example of how partnerships called Local Area Agreements (LAAs) can be particularly effective.

A partnership between the Isle of Wight Council, local police and Southern Vectis, the nightbus scheme offers night clubbers cheap, convenient transport home and was been introduced to reduce problems associated with revellers making their way home after a night out.

The scheme impressed the Local Government Association who has produced a booklet highlighting the nightbus initiative as an example other local authorities should aspire to through LAA schemes.

Cllr Diana Tuson, cabinet member for safer communities on the Isle of Wight said:

“The partnership scheme was such a great success here on the Island and I am glad our work is being used as a beacon to encourage, guide and assist other local authorities in using LAAs to solve problems within their communities.

“The nightbus scheme continues to be a great success on the Island and we enjoy a closer working relationship with the police and Southern Vectis as a result of our work on this particular scheme.”

The Island’s Police Community Safety Inspector Mark Bell said: “The success of this scheme demonstrates what can be achieved when we work together. Violence and damage reduced in two of the three areas and people can travel home safely.” 

Marc Morgan-Huws from Southern Vectis said:

“Our participation in the scheme has been a tremendous accomplishment, bringing us closer ties with the Police, the Isle of Wight Council and other local organisations to promote safer travel for our customers.”

The document can be downloaded from the Local Government Association’s website: http://www.lga.gov.uk/lga/aio/775449