First Bus welcomes the announcement by the Department for Transport ('DfT') of a £150m funding package over six months for regional bus and light rail operators as pandemic restrictions ease and passenger numbers continue to rebuild.
Buses have a central role to play in achieving many of society’s objectives. The UK Government's recently published Levelling Up White Paper emphasised the importance of public transport connectivity, and as well as today’s announcement we also look forward to the Bus Service Improvement Plan funding decisions which are expected shortly from the DfT. These will help local authorities and bus operators throughout England work together to increase bus use, reduce urban congestion and accelerate the transition to zero emissions through delivery of better, more reliable services for passengers, in line with the ambitions of the National Bus Strategy.
Commenting on the DfT’s announcement, First Bus Managing Director Janette Bell said:
“We welcome Government’s recognition of the importance of transitional funding support for the bus industry and look forward to seeing more detail on the proposals. This support is vital to help maintain services for customers and communities as the recovery from the pandemic continues. Customers’ travel habits and commuting patterns continue to evolve and we will continue to work closely with local authorities to develop joint plans for our networks.”