'Mini Switzerland' plan for rural transport network

Plans have been published for a new pilot project aiming to create a so-called "Mini Switzerland" transport network in the Peak District.

Campaigners said the scheme in the Hope Valley, Derbyshire, could become the "UK's first real‑world demonstrator" for a fully integrated rural transport system, modelled on Switzerland's clock-face timetables and connections between buses and trains.

Under the proposals, services would run to hourly, easy‑to‑remember schedules, with buses timed to meet trains at key interchanges.

Thomas Ableman, public transport expert and creator of the concept, said: "By properly integrating buses and trains, we can unlock far more value from the networks we already fund."

Supporters include climate groups, bus and train operators.

The proposed trial would include tickets working across different operators and the network to be supported by "clearer information and modest infrastructure upgrades".

The report said the project "does not rely on large‑scale construction" but a focus on coordinating services that already exist, with improved links designed to grow passenger numbers and deliver better value for money.

The project is modelled on the hourly train service which runs to and from Sheffield and Manchester through the Peak District. The report states the current bus services "are infrequent and unpredictable" and are not timed to meet the trains.

This would be changed to better serve trains along the main bus corridor between Castleton, Hope, Bamford, Hathersage and Eyam, with services running every 20 minutes all day.

The report said the plan would be to make buses arrive shortly before a train pulls into a station making connections smoother.

Ableman said: "A rural corridor with modest demand can justify high frequency when it sits inside an integrated network rather than operating in isolation.

"For years we've been stuck in a cycle where rural public transport costs more and delivers less. Mini Switzerland shows there's another way. By properly integrating buses and trains, we can unlock far more value from the networks we already fund.

"Transport integration is one of the most powerful and most cost-effective tools we have to widen access to opportunity and drive economic growth. At a time when budgets are tight, it's never been more important to make the system work as a joined-up whole."

Roger Clarke, trustee of Hope Valley Climate Action, added: "For people in the Hope Valley, this is about being able to get to work, to school, to shops and to healthcare without always needing a car. It's also about managing visitor traffic in a way that protects our villages and landscape.

"We're proud that our community can help lead a project that could shape the future of rural transport across the country."

Rail operator Northern and High Peak Buses also welcomed the proposals. They said better coordination could help public transport become a more attractive choice for everyday journeys.

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