New legislation aimed at improving buses and boosting local control of services has moved a step closer with the introduction of the Bus Services Bill in the House of Lords.

The plans will lift the ban on local authorities establishing their own bus companies, making it easier for them to control services and shape routes in an effort to make them work better for local people. The Bill will also empower local authorities to work alongside private operators to improve bus services, if they choose to not pursue full ownership.

It follows the announcement made earlier this week of new powers for local leaders to similarly be able to better shape rail services to better meet the needs of their communities.

Additionally, the Bill ensures that what it describes as lifeline bus services cannot be removed or changed without councils reviewing their ability to serve communities, especially those in rural or deprived areas.

“It is high time we recognise that local leaders need to be able to make decisions about their buses” – Transport Secretary, Heidi Alexander

Transport Secretary, Heidi Alexander, said: “It is high time we recognise that local leaders need to be able to make decisions about their buses.

“The introduction of the Bus Services Bill marks the next step on our journey to overhaul how bus services operate, delivering on our commitment to improve living standards across the country.

“This is on top of over £1 billion to help improve bus service reliability and frequency – better connecting communities across the country to job opportunities and public services.”

To mark the introduction of the Bill, the Local Transport Minister Simon Lightwood visited Reading to discuss how the new powers will enable local authorities to implement their own improvements.

“As our owner, the local authority can guarantee the maximum return on any investment in making bus services even more attractive” – Robert Williams, Reading Buses Chief Executive Officer

Robert Williams, Reading Buses Chief Executive Officer, said: “Local ownership, local management, and consistent coordinated thinking has allowed us to focus on planning and delivering the best possible network. As our owner, the local authority can guarantee the maximum return on any investment in making bus services even more attractive.”

The government has also responded to its consultation on guidance for local leaders seeking public control of bus services. Following positive feedback, new guidance has been published to support local authorities in streamlining the franchising process.

“The introduction of the Bus Services Bill, and its intention to hand more powers to local areas, will herald a smoother ride for the bus” – Jason Prince, Director of the Urban Transport Group

Jason Prince, Director of the Urban Transport Group, said: “Buses are the backbone of our public transport system. The introduction of the Bus Services Bill, and its intention to hand more powers to local areas, will herald a smoother ride for the bus.

“The Bill will help ensure the bus plays an active role in supporting and growing our local economies and connecting our communities.”

Against violence towards women and girls

 

The Bill also mandates that drivers undertake training to identify and respond to threats of violence against women and girls and anti-social behaviour on buses and at bus stops.

Anthea Sully, Chief Executive, White Ribbon UK, said: “It’s vital that women and girls freedom of movement also equates to being safe while travelling. The bus network and drivers play an important role in ensuring the safety of women and girls by being allies, which is reflected in the mandatory training that would be introduced in this Bill relating to knowing how to identify and respond to threats of gender-based violence. This will help to change harmful attitudes and behaviours. We all have a part to play to ensure all women and girls can live free without the fear of violence.”