Legislation is being laid before UK Parliament today [9 September] which gives all local transport authorities across England new powers to run their own bus services – powers previously limited to mayoral combined authorities.
The UK government aim to provide local leaders across the country the power to deliver services in a way that suits the needs of their communities.
The government has also launched a consultation on new draft guidance to provide advice and support for local leaders looking to bring services into public control.
Government organisers hope that this new, simplified guidance will help break down barriers to local control of bus services, speeding up the process and bringing down costs.
The announcement also highlighted that since 2010, the year the last incumbent Labour government left office, almost 300 million fewer miles have been driven by buses per year.
READ MORE: New research highlights economic impact of buses on local services
The new Buses Bill, which will follow this first statutory instrument, is the current Labour government’s attempt to put power over bus services back in the hands of local leaders.
Transport Secretary, Louise Haigh, said: “Buses are the lifeblood of our communities, but for too many people it has become impossible to rely on local services, as routes have been slashed and timetables hollowed out.
“Today is the first stop on our journey to delivering better buses across the country. After decades of failed deregulation, local leaders will finally have the powers to provide services that deliver for passengers.
“And we are taking steps to support local leaders to deliver improved bus services faster and cheaper than ever before.
“With local communities firmly back in the driving seat, our bus revolution will save vital routes up and down the country and put passengers first.”
Achievements and innovations in public transport planning will be celebrated at the third annual CiTTi Awards, which will be held on 26 November 2024 at De Vere Grand Connaught Rooms in London. Nominations are open now! Please visit www.cittiawards.co.uk to learn more about this unmissable event for the UK’s transportation sector
