Source · Select Committees · Transport Committee
3rd Report – Buses connecting communities
Transport Committee
HC 494
Published 13 August 2025
Recommendations
21
Accepted in Part
Establish framework for local authorities' early access to operator data for bus franchising
Recommendation
The Department should set out a clear framework to ensure that local transport authorities have early access to operator data on patronage, fares and costs when undertaking a statutory assessment for bus franchising. The framework should include defined timescales for …
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Government Response Summary
The government states that LTAs already have statutory data powers requiring operators to provide necessary data. It commits to setting out a clear framework for data access, including timescales and safeguards, within the next substantive revision of the franchising guidance.
Department for Transport
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28
Accepted in Part
Establish a coherent national framework for alternative transport models to ensure sustainable funding.
Recommendation
Alternative transport models such as DRT and community transport are essential for improving connectivity where conventional services are unviable. This makes them a possible model for sustaining socially necessary services. Their potential is being undermined, however, by fragmented regulation, inconsistent …
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Government Response Summary
The government is developing DRT best practice guidance and updating EP/franchising guidance to help local authorities integrate DRT/CT and use existing funding for socially necessary services, with the first version expected later this year. However, it does not commit to establishing a new coherent national framework for sustainable funding.
Department for Transport
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29
Accepted in Part
Develop a dedicated policy and regulatory framework for alternative public transport models within 18 months.
Recommendation
The Department should within 18 months develop a dedicated policy and regulatory framework for alternative and complementary public transport models, including Demand-Responsive Transport (DRT) and community transport. This framework should include growing and expanding their role in serving poorly connected …
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Government Response Summary
The government is developing DRT best practice guidance and updating EP/franchising guidance to support local authorities in integrating DRT/CT and coordinating existing funding streams. However, it questions the need for a new dedicated policy and regulatory framework, preferring to support local authorities within the existing framework, and does not address all specific components of the recommendation.
Department for Transport
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