Minibus
Group Minibuses
3rd Washington Scout Group operate two minibuses; a 2014 LWB Transit 430 EL (2.4 135PS) with 17 seats and a 2016 MWB Transit 410 (2.2 135PS) with 15 seats.
Both vehicles are equipped to carry a wheelchair, though you must prearrange this with us.
Other community organisations, charities and Scout Groups can use our vehicle. We operate on a not-for-profit basis and the costs are shared among the users.
Our vehicles are not available for private hire to individuals.
Booking
To make a booking or to find out more information regarding our minibuses please email minibus@3rdwashingtonscouts.org.uk.
If our bus isn't available on the day you may wish to contact 1st Eppleton, 1st Fatfield, 1st Herrington or 1st Washington scout groups who also own Minibuses and offer similar terms and conditions.
Pricing
Newcastle Upon Tyne - Clean Air Zone
From 30th January 2023, a Clean Air Zone has been introduced in Newcastle city centre.
This means if you enter the Clean Air Zone while driving the 17 seater minibus there will be a charge of £12.50 per vehicle per day which you will be liable to pay if you have hired the minibus. This does not apply to the 15 seater minibus.
If you do need to travel in a Clean Air Zone charge you will need to pay this charge within seven days of your journey.
For example, if your journey is on Monday, you must pay your CAZ charge by the end of the following Sunday.
Payments should be made using the national payment system - failure to do so within 7 days of your travel will result in a £50 charge.
There are other Clean Air zones around the UK, further information can be found at the Breathe Clean Air website below:
Eligibility to use the minibuses
Your organisation must be a registered community or voluntary group, charity or school
You must have your own Section 19 Permit
Drivers must:
Be aged 25-70
As both buses have a disabled conversion, D1 is not a requirement to driver the bus, however D1+E is required in order to hire the minibus and trailer together.
Have at least 2 years' driving experience
Hold a current MIDAS minibus certificate (or similar passenger-carrying safety qualification).
Groups wishing to train drivers in MIDAS should contact East Durham Community Transport. The course costs £50.
Our terms and conditions of use outline the whole minibus project.