Bus service in Spenge is enhanced with the arrival of a new vehicle from the local transportation company.

In the heart of Kreis Herford, a new chapter in public transportation has begun. The Citizens' Bus Association (Bürgerbusverein Spenge) has received a brand-new bus, marking a significant step forward for local transport services.

The acquisition of the new Bürgerbus was made possible with the support of County Commissioner Jürgen Müller and the regional government, who collectively contributed 98,500 euros towards the bus's cost of around 120,000 euros.

The Verkehrsgesellschaft Kreis Herford GmbH (VKH), established in 2024, procured the new bus and will take over the concession for lines 668 and 669, starting from January 2027. This move will see the Verkehrsunternehmen Detmers hand over the contract to VKH, who will then make their vehicles available to the citizen buses.

The Bürgerbusverein Spenge currently operates four routes with two buses, and with the addition of the new bus, they are now the only one of eleven associations in OWL operating with more than one vehicle. The new Bürgerbus offers space for eight passengers and is designed to be barrier-free, ensuring inclusivity for all members of the community.

The new Bürgerbus, equipped with eight-speed operation, a turning system, and a reversing camera, was officially taken into service by Jürgen Müller, Mayor Bernd Dumcke, and Andreas Warnecke. With over 40 volunteers actively driving for the Citizens' Bus Association, each taking on an average of 2 to 3 shifts per month, the new Bürgerbus is expected to carry around 20,000 passengers per year.

Volunteers must present an annual renewed health certificate, a police driving license certificate, and a class B driver's license to ensure the safety and reliability of the service. The VKH will also provide personnel (drivers) for the Citizens' Bus Association, ensuring smooth operations.

The Kreis Herford aims to use emission-free vehicles and introduce on-demand offers like car-sharing or autonomous vehicles in the future, as part of their commitment to sustainable transport solutions. The first buses of the new transport company will be deployed on the streets in the Kreisgebiet from August 2026.

This new Bürgerbus is a testament to the commitment of the local authorities and volunteers in providing accessible and reliable public transport for the people of Spenge and the wider Kreis Herford region.

Bus service in Spenge is enhanced with the arrival of a new vehicle from the local transportation company.