More money for Scottish buses

Additional £63 million takes support to November

Scottish Government has approved additional expenditure of up to £63 million to support bus operators with maintaining services from 17 August until 8 November.

This extends the support of up to £46.7 million which is being provided to increase bus services since 22 June. This funding will cover the expected loss of fare-paying passenger revenue that operators continue to experience due to COVID-19 physical distancing requirements and reduced carrying capacity – at a time where more people are travelling and more bus services are required.

Cabinet Secretary for Transport, Infrastructure and Connectivity, Michael Matheson, said: “With bus travel typically accounting for just under three quarters of all public transport journeys – this funding for bus services is vital in keeping Scotland moving during the COVID-19 crisis. People all over the country are reliant on bus services to access employment, health services and to see family and friends. This additional funding of up to £63 million seeks to support those people, by anticipating their needs and keeping them safe – by providing an uplift in bus services with physical distancing measures in place.”

Paul White, Director for CPT in Scotland, said: “CPT Scotland are pleased the Scottish Government has recognised the continued role the bus network plays in helping people return to work safely.

“This funding will enable the delivery of a comprehensive bus network in the coming weeks and months. The funding announced today will be critical to ensuring the right level of resources are in place to serve communities with the bus services they need.”

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