‘Rural bus renaissance’ potential in report, Campaign claims

Ingredients for a ‘rural bus renaissance’ are apparent in the Transport Select Committee’s recent report.

Commenting on the ‘Buses connecting communities’ report, Silviya Barrett of Campaign for Better Transport, said: “This report contains the ingredients for a rural bus renaissance that could truly change lives. Its recommendations, if adopted, would take us a large step closer to a society where people’s needs are met, opportunities are unlocked and lives enriched.

“Gaps in bus provision should be identified and filled with new services. The Government should publish guidance on minimum service levels and properly fund local authorities to provide them. These were strong recommendations of ours, along with a national standard for different categories of bus stops, so we are delighted that they have been included in the report.

“The Government is making good progress towards improving buses, but if it wants its bus revolution to reach the towns and villages that need it most sorely, it should heed this bold and positive report.”