Government Unveils ‘Bus Revolution’ to Empower Local Authorities and Save Key Routes Across England

Government announces 'bus revolution' to protect essential services nationwide

According to the government, buses in England have traveled nearly 300 million fewer miles annually since 2010. Newly revealed initiatives today aim to give local authorities more authority over bus operations.

Monday, September 9, 2024, 08:

The government has announced what it describes as a "bus revolution," aimed at preserving essential services and prioritizing riders, highlighting new initiatives to enhance franchising support.

The bill, set to be presented to parliament on Monday, will empower all local transport bodies with the authority to operate their own bus systems.

Currently, only metropolitan mayors have the authority to manage services in such a manner.

The measure will be introduced as a statutory instrument, which does not require parliamentary approval.

The government has initiated a consultation to streamline guidelines which aims to accelerate procedures and cut expenses for local authorities wishing to take services into public ownership.

Under the bus franchising scheme, private entities are authorized by local governments to run bus services within a designated zone, while the authorities maintain oversight over crucial elements.

This might encompass schedules, travel paths, and ticket prices.

The Department for Transport reports that the yearly mileage covered by buses in England has decreased by almost 300 million miles since 2010.

The department intends to introduce a Buses Bill during the current parliamentary session to enhance support for franchising.

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Transport Secretary Louise Haigh praised the initiatives, calling them "the initial step in our mission to improve bus services nationwide."

"She stated that after many years of unsuccessful deregulation, local officials will at last have the authority to offer services that benefit passengers."

"We are implementing measures to assist community leaders in enhancing bus services more efficiently and affordably than previously possible."

"Empowering local communities to take control, our transformative bus initiative will preserve essential services across the nation and prioritize the needs of passengers."

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Helen Whately, the opposition's transport spokesperson, criticized the Labour Party's proposals as lacking financial backing.

"She emphasized the need for clarity on whether local authorities plan to increase council tax or reduce essential services such as social care to finance this," she stated.

"Additionally, this change will have no impact on passengers. It won't lead to more train services, and passengers would rather see the £2 fare cap continued in the budget."

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