A NEW bus has been launched to give help boost the local economy.

The service will link Wilmslow and Handforth with Handforth Dean Retail Park, home to one of the country’s largest M&S stores, Tesco Extra, Boots and JD Sports.

The bus will run from Mondays to Saturdays is being developer funded as a result of the building of the Next store at the retail park.

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The new service will be operated by D&G Bus initially for a 12-month period and will hopefully contribute to the recovery of the local retail sector.

Cllr Craig Browne, chairman of Cheshire East Council’s highways and transport committee, said: “I am very pleased that this new service is being launched, providing an important link for our communities.

“And while the government £2 bus fare scheme is still in operation, there is an added incentive to get out and use the service.”

It gives residents who do not have a car the opportunity to visit an out of town development.

The move could also reduce traffic and improve the environment by encouraging drivers to leave vehicles at home and use public transport.

Departing from Wilmslow railway station on the hour with returns from Handforth Dean at 35 minutes past the hour, the bus will also call at Wilmslow Bank Square and The Paddock in Handforth.

The new service will operate hourly from 9am to 6pm.