Council takes swift action following closure of community transport provider

20 March 2026

West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) is working with parish councils and local transport providers to explore ways to support residents who could be affected by the closure of a community bus service.

The Council is taking swift action following confirmation that Ability CIC has ceased trading and withdrawn its local bus services. The organisation recently announced its closure, citing several financial pressures including rising operating costs and the loss of essential facilities. 

Ability previously delivered around 25,000 to 28,000 passenger trips per year - equivalent to around 50 people a day making a return journey. While this represents a small proportion of the 12 million local bus trips made annually in West Northamptonshire, the Council recognises the essential nature of Ability’s services for those who used them.

As a result, work has already begun engaging directly with other community transport (CT) providers, volunteer car schemes and parish councils to understand capacity within the local sector and identify where resident need is most urgent. This work is helping to map gaps left by Ability’s closure, assess where support may be required, and determine how to best facilitate alternative provision. 

In addition, the Council will soon be launching a £173,000 Community Transport grant fund for 2026/27, inviting local transport providers to submit an application for grant funding.

“We understand the importance of these journeys for many residents - particularly those whose needs are not met by commercial bus services and who may find private transport unaffordable. Our focus now is on ensuring they continue to have access to essential services, social opportunities and community connections.

“By working closely with local community transport providers and parish councils, and by launching this year’s grant funding, we are committed to supporting a strong and sustainable network for the future and ensuring everyone has access to the services they rely on.”Cllr Richard Butler, Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport at WNC

WNC will continue to work with partners over the coming weeks to explore local capacity, support voluntary and community-led solutions, and deploy resources where they are likely to have the greatest impact.