LOCAL Transport Minister Simon Lightwood visited Reading this week as the government announced new transport legislation.
The Bus Services Bill is set to allow local authorities control over public transport, including routes, timetables, and fares, ministers have announced.
The bill is aimed at ending a “postcode lottery” of local transport after what the government calls “decades of decline.”
Plans will lift the ban on local authorities establishing their own bus companies, making it easier for them to control services and shape routes to work better for residents.
The bill will also empower local authorities to work alongside private operators to improve bus services if they choose to not pursue full ownership.
It will also ensure that lifeline bus services cannot be removed or changed without councils reviewing their ability to serve communities, especially those in rural or deprived areas.
It follows the announcement made earlier this week of new powers for local leaders to similarly be able to better shape rail services to better meet the needs of their communities.
To mark the introduction of the Bill, Local Transport Minister Simon Lightwood visited Reading to discuss how the new powers will enable local authorities to implement their own improvements.
In an ongoing drive to improve buses, the Government allocated £955 million in bus funding last month, following an intervention to cap single bus fares at £3.
Reading Buses is owned by Reading Borough Council, and last month was named as the UK’s Top Shire Operators at the UK Bus Awards–one of the largest events recognising the work of bus companies in the country.
Matt Rodda, Reading Central MP, said: “I was delighted to welcome Bus Minister, Simon Lightwood, when he visited Reading Buses today, as the Government published its buses Bill.
“The bill will allow more councils to take the same approach as Reading and run their own bus companies, helping to provide affordable and frequent services, helping encourage public transport, and reducing pollution and congestion.”
Robert Williams, Reading Buses Chief Executive Officer, said: “Local ownership, local management, and consistent coordinated thinking has allowed us to focus on planning and delivering the best possible network.
“As our owner, the local authority can guarantee the maximum return on any investment in making bus services even more attractive.”
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander said: “It is high time we recognise that local leaders need to be able to make decisions about their buses.
“The introduction of the Bus Services Bill marks the next step on our journey to overhaul how bus services operate, delivering on our commitment to improve living standards across the country.
“This is on top of over £1 billion to help improve bus service reliability and frequency– better connecting communities across the country to job opportunities and public services.”
Jason Prince, Director of the Urban Transport Group, said: “Buses are the backbone of our public transport system.
“The introduction of the Bus Services Bill, and its intention to hand more powers to local areas, will herald a smoother ride for the bus.
“The Bill will help ensure the bus plays an active role in supporting and growing our local economies and connecting our communities.”
