SAINSBURY’S has launched a free bus service for shoppers.

The supermarket is sending free buses across Weymouth to bring shoppers to the store on Mercery Road.

The free bus scheme, which started on July 14, has six services travelling to different areas of Weymouth on set days from Monday to Friday.

Brendan Moran, Deputy Manager of Sainsbury’s Weymouth, said: “We had hoped that a bus route would be redirected to come to the store however it was quite difficult to organise that with the local bus company so we decided to offer a free service instead.

“If this trial run proves to be successful, we will hopefully be able to extend the service to reach even more people in the area.

“So far the feedback we have had from people who have used the service has been really positive. We would love for even more people to give it a try so that we can possibly increase the service’s coverage.”

Shoppers will be dropped off at the store’s new bus stop, one of the three pieces of recently unveiled artwork at Weymouth Gateway which have been created by sculptor Andy Kirkby.

Councillor Ian Bruce has welcomed the plans for the free service.

He said: “This bus service is great news. It will give people the chance to come down to Weymouth Gateway and visit the new store as well as being able to enjoy the fantastic new sculptures.

“Plus it’s free for everyone to use! I would encourage people to take advantage of the service as they will have to stop running it if it isn’t being used.”

Shoppers will be picked up from selected bus stops across Weymouth and Portland before visiting the store, where they will have around two hours to shop before the bus returns them back home.

The full timetable can be found below.

 

Dorset Echo:

Dorset Echo:

Dorset Echo:

Dorset Echo:

Dorset Echo:

Dorset Echo: