Government turns attention to supporting coaches
How Government can best support the coach industry is one of the topics to be discussed at an industry round-table discussion tomorrow (7 May 2025), Simon Lightwood, Local Transport Minister has told B&CB.
Speaking during a visit to Star Coaches in Batley, West Yorkshire today (6 May 2025), the Minister said the goal of the Government’s current engagement with the industry is to listen and learn what the issues are. He said: “I’ve been hearing about the important role Star Coaches plays in the local community. It’s been about listening and learning how the government can best support the industry.”
The focus on coaches precedes National Coach Week, an event held by trade body RHA which this year is aiming to promote awareness of the role the coach industry plays in the UK. On the event, Simon said: “It’s about recognising the role the industry plays to the local economy. How it opens up barriers to opportunities, such as school trips. It’s a really affordable way of getting around.”
As part of efforts to tackle driver shortages and expand opportunities for young people, the Government is currently reviewing consultation feedback on licence rules for 18–20-year-olds.
The Government says it is also working with the sector to continually improve accessibility, which includes running an innovation competition with Innovate UK to develop transferrable Audio-Visual (AV) equipment for coaches, which will award projects up to £170,000.
The Minister met with staff and RHA at Star Coaches to discuss the industry’s contribution to local communities, and how the government can work with operators to improve accessibility, make services greener and drive economic growth as part of the Government’s Plan for Change.
“We want to be really clear that we want to hear how best to support the industry” – Simon Lightwood, Local Transport Minister
A wide range of topics are due to be discussed at the round-table event, with Simon explaining the goal will be to mainly listen and learn how the government can best support the industry. He said: “We want to be really clear that we want to hear how best to support the industry. We want to engage openly and transparently.”
To help make the industry’s challenges and issues known, her suggests operators should engage with local members of parliament to ensure they are aware, as well as work with industry groups to help increase awareness.
“We urge everyone to join us in celebrating this important industry and recognise the hard work and dedication of the people who make it all possible” – Richard Smith, RHA Managing Director
Richard Smith, RHA Managing Director, said: “National Coach Week is a fantastic opportunity to shine a spotlight on the vital role the coach industry plays in our society.
“Coaches provide essential transport links, connect communities, and support our tourism sector. They are also a key part of the solution to reducing congestion and improving air quality.
“We urge everyone to join us in celebrating this important industry and recognise the hard work and dedication of the people who make it all possible.”