How does Katch work?
Katch is an on-demand bus service. It runs on a specific route but it doesn’t run to a timetable. Instead, you book your time and journey and Katch will pick you up at your chosen time and take you to your chosen stop.
Do I have to book in advance?
You can book up to 2 weeks in advance and up to 45 minutes before your journey (as long as the booking lines are open)
Will I share Katch with other people?
Usually, yes. If other people have booked from the same stop at the same time, or at other stops on your route, the Katch bus will pick them up.
Can I flag the bus down if I see it on the road?
Only if it’s operating during its scheduled service in the morning (see the Routes and Fares page). Otherwise the Katch bus service has to be pre-booked by using any of the booking methods available.
Is Katch accessible?
Yes, you can bring a wheelchair on (as long as it’s crash tested), and our friendly drivers will help you. You can also bring pushchairs.
How long is the return fare valid for?
A return fare is valid on the day it is issued.
How can the fare be paid for?
You can pay by cash or card on the bus.
What are the operating times of the bus?
Monday – Friday 7.30am – 6.30pm
Saturday 10.00am – 12:30pm
There is no service operating on a Sunday or Bank Holidays.
How many customers can use the bus at once?
The Katch bus can accommodate 11 passengers and has room for 1 wheelchair.
Who is operating the Katch bus service?
This is a joint pilot scheme between East Suffolk Council and Coastal Accessible Transport Services.
What if I want to travel to somewhere else along the route?
The Connecting Communities pre-booked service, operated by Coastal Accessible Transport Services within east Suffolk, can possibly take you to other locations such as Saxmundham or Aldeburgh. For further information about pick up possibilities, please visit the Connecting Communities website. The fare system is mileage based, the same as for the Katch bus.
How do I book?
You can book over the phone or complete the online form. The online form doesn’t provide live booking, unfortunately, so you’ll get a call back or email from one of the team who will confirm your booking with you. Please note that bookings will be processed during our office hours: Monday – Friday 8.30am – 4.30pm