The government has allocated an additional £80 million to preserve vital bus services while empowering local authorities to enhance travel infrastructure within their communities and Worcestershire County Council will benefit from a substantial injection of over £1.4 million. This allocation builds upon the previous £80 million investment in the Bus Services Improvement Plan+ (BSIP+) for 2022-23 and the £1 billion investment in bus services in 2022.
This financial commitment is aimed at safeguarding and enhancing the accessibility and affordability of public transportation.
Additionally, the recent announcement of a further £140 million in May, through the extension of the Bus Service Operators Grant (BSOG), brings the total government support for bus services in England to £300 million, extending into 2025.
In response to the rising cost of living and to alleviate daily travel expenses, the government has allocated £200 million to extend the bus fare cap. Single bus tickets are capped at £2 outside of London until the end of October 2023, rising to £2.50 until 30 November 2024.
This cap has significantly reduced travel expenses, particularly in rural areas where buses serve as a lifeline, with the average fare decreasing by 10.8% in rural and non-metropolitan areas of England.
The £2 fare cap has cut travel costs, particularly in rural areas, where buses are crucial for so many people to get around, with the average fare dropping by 10.8 per cent in rural and non-metropolitan parts of England.
The measures take total government support to protect and improve bus services while keeping fares low to £3.5 billion since 2020.
Upon learning about the investment, Nigel Huddleston MP said:
“I know that many of my constituents rely on buses to get them to school, work, hospital, and to visit friends and family.
"This investment in our local bus services is a significant step towards improving accessibility, reducing the cost of living, and ensuring that everyone in Worcestershire can rely on efficient public transport.
"It is part of the government's commitment to enhancing our communities and supporting our residents.”
Commenting, Roads Minister Richard Holden MP said:
“Buses are the most popular form of public transport and millions of people across the country from the Tees Valley to Torbay rely on their local service to get to work, attend medical appointments and see loved ones.
"We are providing a further £80 million to help local authorities improve and protect essential services, delivering for local communities across the country by enhancing transport connections, supporting passengers and growing the economy."
