The RHA has launched a ‘Manifesto for the Coach Industry’ at the start of this year’s National Coach Week (Friday 12 May).

It calls on politicians across the country to support the coach sector – and to Think Co.A.C.H.E.S.

At every level of politics, from Westminster, to mayors’ offices, to local councils, our government needs to understand the challenges facing the coach industry – as well as the vital role it plays in the wider economy.

Coaches are vital for tourism, school transport, workplace access, professional and amateur sports, and being there when other forms of transport aren’t available.

Manifesto for the Coach Industry – a summary

We therefore call on government to address the following key issues:

Co (Costs & Regulation) – We need more targeted support to ease cost pressures and help to comply with planned accessibility regulations.

A (Abroad) – Work with EU to speed up border crossings; change visa rules for drivers.

C (Conditions) – Coaches should be considered in infrastructure projects to make it easier to operate in cities and tourism areas.

H (Highways) – Road infrastructure must be fit for purpose and designed with coaches in mind; Port and border facilities must be updated.

E (Environment) – Lower the cost and increase availability of low-carbon, alternative fuels; work with industry and the market to develop a zero-emission coach travel roadmap.

S (Skills) – We need more training options and a skills bootcamp for Category D licences; lift restrictions on 18-year-old drivers to allow them to undertake non-scheduled or occasional journeys.

• More information on the RHA’s Manifesto for the Coach Industry can be found here.