Bus operators in Scotland will receive continued help from the government to maintain bus services as passenger numbers begin to recover from the pandemic
The Scottish Government has approved funding of up to £42 million between 4 October 2021 and 31 March 2022 to enable bus operators to maintain services while patronage recovers from the effects of Covid-19, in addition to maintaining concessionary reimbursement and bus service operator grant payments at pre-covid levels.
Minister for Transport Graeme Dey said: “Bus services played an essential role in keeping Scotland moving safely during the coronavirus pandemic – and have an equally important part to play as we gradually start to return to some sense of normality. Although passenger numbers have grown, additional support is still currently required. This funding of up to £42 million means we can continue to fund operators between October 2021 and March 2022, to fill the gap between the additional costs of running services due to Covid-19 and reduced ticket income as demand recovers. It is important that the public continue to plan their journeys in advance, allowing extra time to avoid busier services, and keep following the rules on the wearing of face coverings unless exempt. I’d also encourage people to keep up good habits by continuing to walk, wheel or cycle where possible. The virus hasn’t gone away, so we need everyone to play their part in keeping our transport system safe.”
Director for the Confederation of Passenger Transport in Scotland, Paul White welcomed the move: “CPT welcomes the Scottish Government’s continued recognition of the vital role the bus network plays and the requirement to extend support while the impact of Covid continues to suppress passenger numbers,” he said. “CPT will continue to engage with the Scottish Government to ensure that bus services remain resilient and that the sector is best placed to facilitate increasing passenger journeys and play its part in other shared objectives such as decarbonisation, social inclusion and accessibility.”
