WREXHAM'S Shuttle Bus has been launched to make it easier for workers to get to Wrexham Industrial Estate.

The service offers vehicles that are easily accessible, and will initially be available to Industrial Estate workers who live in Rhosddu, Borras, Garden Village and Acton.

The service will also call at the railway station to collect those who have travelled from further afield.

Wrexham's industrial estate is one of the largest in Europe, and the council hopes to encourage those who do not drive to take up employment thanks to the new service.

The Shuttle service is 'demand responsive' - users pre-book journeys, or blocks of journeys. A single trip costs £1.20, a weekly ticket £6.

The Shuttle is available 24 hours a day, and it's hoped this will help nightshift workers.

Funding for the service has come from the Assembly and Wrexham council, with involvement from Taith, the regional transport consortium of North Wales' Councils.

And £150,000 in grant aid has been given by the Assembly, to pay for vehicles and equipment, together with £100,000 for operational costs.

Wrexham council has also approved funding of £70,000 every year for the next three years.

As well as workers, it is hoped the Shuttle will also benefit businesses at the industrial estate.

The council's strategic director, Paul Roberts, said: 'We hope this initiative will be welcome news to employers who are having problems with recruitment and retention of labour.

'As one of the largest industrial estates in Europe, it's vital transport links to the estate are easily accessible.'

Andy Threlkeld, chairman of the Business Forum said: 'We are delighted with the introduction of this service. Some businesses have to employ transport companies to bring workers to the industrial estate.

'The introduction of the Shuttle should attract future investors to the estate.'

If you would like to book the Shuttle Bus call 08708 505155, or if you would like to find out more about the service contact the Transport Co-ordination Service at Wrexham County Borough Council on 01978 297160.