First Eastern Counties has pledged to make services more punctual by becoming one of the first bus operators to sign the Bus Punctuality Improvement Partnership.
Four companies – including First Buses – signed the charter at the Annual Operator Conference in Suffolk last week.
The joint initiative with Suffolk County Council will see First regularly review punctuality and identify the causes for any late services and remedies in place.
As well as signing the initiative, First will send twice yearly reports on punctuality levels to the Traffic Commissioner for the Eastern Region who will monitor progress.
First Eastern Counties was recently praised for its work after Passenger Focus revealed it had scored a 93pc satisfaction rate in Suffolk.
First Eastern Counties’ Commercial Director, Steve Wickers, said: “We are committed to providing the best possible service for all of our passengers.
“Although our high Passenger Focus score speaks volumes, there is always room for improvement and we welcome any feedback from our passengers.
“By signing the Bus Punctuality Improvement Partnership, we are demonstrating our commitment to improving bus services in Suffolk, making the bus the preferred travel option.”
Councillor Mary Evans, assistant cabinet member for roads and transport said: “Suffolk County Council wants to encourage more people to travel by bus to ease congestion and improve air quality in our bigger towns. Two of the key factors in deciding to take the bus instead of driving are the punctuality and reliability of the bus service. I am really pleased to see bus operators sign up to the Punctuality Improvement Partnership.
“The agreement means that buses are fitted with equipment which tracks their journeys giving Real Time Passenger Information, so that passengers can know exactly when their next bus is due. It also monitors the punctuality which allows the county council’s Urban Traffic Management Controls in Ipswich and Lowestoft, to prioritise buses at traffic lights so they can keep up to time.”