Stoke-on-Trent South's MP has welcomed the UK Government’s new bus strategy, which is aimed at improving patchy, unreliable bus services and improving access to a combined public transport network. It will feature Stoke-on-Trent council working with local bus operators to collaborate in order to receive more Government funding for the bus network.
The £3bn bus strategy will see six key goals delivered in the coming years, which are:
- Simpler fares. Councils and operators will be expected to provide cheaper single bus fares with daily price caps, so people can use the bus as many times a day as they need without facing mounting costs.
- Integrated transport services across a local area. The new system will see integrated services and ticketing across all transport modes in the area, so people can easily move from bus to train.
- Better information. Councils and operators will have to provide easy to access information, including online, so that services are simple to use. All buses throughout Great Britain will also be required to have ‘next stop’ announcements, so people can travel with confidence.
- Modern and convenient payment methods. All buses will have to accept contactless payments
- Easier access for disabled people. We will launch a consultation on new regulations to improve access on-board buses for wheelchair users.
- Greener buses to decarbonise our transport system. We will consult on the best date to begin phase out of the sale of new diesel buses, as we switch to electric and hydrogen buses. We will deliver 4,000 Zero Emission Buses, including two All Electric Bus Cities.
Jack Brereton MP said:
“I welcome this new fund, which is the boost we need to back up the bus network and combine it with the rail network we are building in Stoke-on-Trent and wider Staffordshire.
I will be working with Ministers and the local council to ensure a good portion of this fund comes to Stoke-on-Trent to boost local bus services, which are in need of an upgrade”
