A FREE shuttle bus service linking Southamp-ton's train and ferry terminals with the new West Quay shopping centre is to be handed over to First Bus.

The bus company, who operate the majority of routes in the city, will be given permission to start the new route in time for the opening of the £270 million mall in late September.

The service will be free for a "honeymoon" period - but users could be charged standard fares from next Spring.

Mark Miller, principal transport planner for the city council, said: "The service will be free initially but after a review next spring, charges could be introduced. We couldn't afford to run it long-term without fares."

Most of the money for the service is being provided by West Quay developers Hammersons, with a contribution from ferry operators Red Funnel.

The service will ensure that every ten minutes throughout the day - between 7.30am to 8.30pm Mondays to Saturdays and 9.30am to 4.30pm Sundays - buses will drop shoppers at Portland Terrace, after picking them up at Central Station and the Town Quay ferry terminal.

The shuttle is being set up to allow the thousands of shoppers expected to flood into the city when the mall opens to move around freely, without adding to traffic congestion.

Another service will also be upgraded after the opening of the shopping centre. Transport bosses aim to improve the current number 90 route, which loops around from Town Quay, to Leisure World, the station and through New Road and Palmerston Road, upping frequency from every 30 minutes to every 20 minutes.

Eventually it is hoped that when funds are available, this will also become a shuttle service, running every ten minutes.

First Bus will also be awarded the contract for this service, following a successful bid.

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