The CPT says it will continue to work with the new government to ensure that buses are given the priority they need, regardless of operational frameworks
Responding to the inclusion of a Better Buses Bill in the Kings Speech following the general election, CEO of the Confederation of Passenger Transport (CPT) Graham Vidler said: “The bus industry will work closely with the new Government to help transform the sector and to help realise its key priorities for economic growth, swifter decarbonisation, and more sustainable travel.
“Bus services are already being transformed in many parts of the country and CPT urges local leaders to use the extensive opportunities they already have to influence and shape the delivery of better bus services. Existing ‘enhanced partnerships’ are growing networks, improving the passenger experience and boosting passenger numbers in places like Leicester, Portsmouth and Norfolk.
“CPT and its members will continue to work closely with the many authorities that want to retain a partnership model to deliver what passengers want – more bus services that are regular, fast, and punctual. We will also share lessons from the early adopters of bus franchising with ministers, mayors and regional or local transport authorities to help ensure success in other areas that choose this option.
“No amount of regulatory change will deliver better services unless local, regional and national governments move swiftly to give buses priority on the road network, curb congestion, and persuade more people to switch away from private car journeys and towards public transport.
“Whoever controls bus networks, stable long-term investment in the sector will be critical. Immediate action must prevent a cliff edge return to fully commercial fares when the £2 fare cap ends in December – a scenario that will harm passengers and services.”
Speaking for the RHA, RHA Managing Director Richard Smith welcomed the Government’s pledges to drive economic growth, and said the trade body for the haulage and coach sectors was committed to supporting the Government to deliver on its missions. “We’re encouraged by a number of commitments in today’s King’s Speech, some of which are key RHA campaign calls. We’re following up with the Government to ensure their legislative programme will support the haulage, van and coach sectors to drive economic growth,” he said.
