Bus priority schemes planned for Portsmouth

Bus priority measures are part of plans for improving travel in Portsmouth after securing over £26m from the government’s Transforming Cities Fund.

Working in partnership with Hampshire County Council and the Isle of Wight Council, the joint bid was awarded £55.6 million towards 23 public transport, walking and cycling schemes. They are expected to reduce journey times by 20%. Over the three year funding period, project partners First Bus and Stagecoach have committed to investing in 29 new high-quality low-emission buses for the Portsmouth city region.

Centred on a network of bus-priority routes, which build on the success of First’s Eclipse and Star, South East Hampshire Rapid Transit aims to make it easier, quicker and more convenient for people to travel in the area using public transport. The rapid transit routes will better connect with rail services, local bus services, walking and cycling routes, as well as local waterborne transport.

Edward Hodgson, Stagecoach Managing Director, said: “Public transport has a vital role to play in driving our local economy whilst helping solve air quality challenges and protecting our environment. This investment is great news for Portsmouth and South East Hampshire and we look forward to delivering the exciting public transport improvements included in the bid.”

Marc Reddy, First Bus, said: “We are delighted that the area has been recognised for this investment and look forward to continuing our successful partnership approach in helping to make bus services more attractive.”

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