West Sussex County Council has been awarded more than £9m from the UK Department for Transport (DfT) to further enhance the county’s bus network.
The funding builds on previous investments, bringing the total Bus Service Improvement Plan (BSIP) funding for the county to more than £19m since 2022.
The additional funding will support infrastructure improvements and service enhancements throughout 2025/26.
The council has allocated £4.5m to increase bus frequencies, support key routes, and reduce fares for young people.
further £4.7m will go towards infrastructure projects, including bus priority measures, upgraded bus stops, and additional real-time passenger information displays.
Councillor Joy Dennis, cabinet member for highways and transport, welcomed the investment, stating: “Having a reliable public transport network is vital for a sustainable and prosperous economy. Residents and businesses rely on buses to stay connected, and this funding allows us to continue working with local operators to improve services.”
Local transport minister Simon Lightwood MP added: “With over £1bn allocated nationally and new powers for local leaders through the Bus Services Bill, our bus revolution is well underway – bringing an end to the postcode lottery of bus services, driving economic growth, and better connecting communities.”
The approved spending plan includes procurement for upcoming projects, ensuring continued improvements to public transport across West Sussex.
Achievements and innovations in public transport will be recognised and celebrated at the fourth annual CiTTi Awards on 25 November 2025 at De Vere Grand Connaught Rooms in London. Visit cittiawards.co.uk to learn more about this unmissable event for the UK’s transportation sector!