Source · Select Committees · Transport Committee
Recommendation 13
13
Acknowledged
Statutory duty to list socially necessary services fails to address unmet needs.
Conclusion
The proposed statutory duty on local transport authorities to list socially necessary services applies only to those already in operation. There is no statutory requirement in the Bus Services (No.2) Bill for authorities to assess unmet needs or identify where new services might be required, although they may do so voluntarily. This creates a risk that gaps in provision are left unaddressed, particularly in rural and under-served areas. Without clear expectations or support for service expansion, the system risks locking in existing patterns of decline. (Conclusion, Paragraph 55)
Government Response Summary
The government agrees with the vision to grow patronage and improve services, stating that local authorities are already expected to set out their vision in BSIPs and are supported with funding for new services. It acknowledges challenges and commits to working with LTAs to improve services, but does not address the lack of a statutory requirement to assess unmet needs.
Government Response
Acknowledged
HM Government
Acknowledged
This Government’s vision for bus services is to grow bus patronage by improving services, and we therefore agree with the Committee. This includes enhancing and revitalising services so passengers have the connections they need to get to work, education, healthcare, retail and leisure services. All local authorities are expected to set out their vision to grow and improve local bus services in their BSIP and we are continuing to provide substantial investment to support them to deliver these plans. Many LTAs operating in EPs have used this funding to invest in new services. For example, Devon County Council have used their funding to deliver a night bus service supporting the night-time economy and Southend have introduced a new service linking Leigh-on-Sea rail station with London Southend Airport. However, we acknowledge that in some places the bus market is facing significant challenges, and more work is needed to stop the decline in bus patronage and start regrowing the network. We will work with LTAs to support them, in partnership with operators, to deliver a step-change to improve services for passengers.