Stagecoach recently welcomed Under-Secretary of State for Local Transport Simon Lightwood MP, along with Bus Users UK, to its Barnsley depot in celebration of Catch the Bus Month. Also in attendance was South Yorkshire Mayor Oliver Coppard and representatives from local disability user group Transport for All.
The visit focused on the ongoing efforts to support decarbonisation and improve accessibility across public transport. During the event, guests had the opportunity to experience one of Stagecoach’s new electric buses.
In addition to decarbonisation, the visit highlighted Stagecoach’s work in ensuring that public transport is accessible for all, particularly in light of the new accessibility regulations that came into effect on 1 October. CEO of Stagecoach Claire Miles said: “We’re proud to be investing in decarbonised and accessible travel across the UK. The increasing number of electric buses in our fleet and our dedication to meeting new accessibility standards reflects our ongoing commitment to delivering sustainable and inclusive transport options for all passengers.
“We were very pleased to welcome Simon Lightwood MP to our Barnsley depot to discuss transport accessibility with local residents. It was a valuable opportunity to hear first hand about the key challenges they face, and we are committed to working together to find solutions that improve access and inclusivity within the transport network.”
Local Transport Minister Simon Lightwood MP commented: “The wheels are turning on the biggest overhaul of buses in a generation, delivering better services for all. Everyone should be able to use local transport to make the journeys they want, how they want, and hearing first-hand from local disabled passengers about their experiences will help us to achieve this.”
Lydia Horbury, Director for England at Bus Users UK, added: “Bringing together the Minister for Local Transport and one of the UK’s leading operators with the people who need and rely on accessible transport was a fitting way to round off Catch the Bus Month. We look forward to working with everyone involved to improve the UK’s lifeline bus services.”
