Government to extend powers to run bus services to all local transport authorities in England

The Government has introduced new legislation aimed at handing all local transport authorities across England new powers to run their own bus services, powers that were previously limited to mayoral combined authorities.

The 'Buses Bill', which has been laid in Parliament today (9 September), will allow local transport authorities to emulate the publicly controlled bus services seen in combined authority regions such as Greater Manchester and London.

The bill will also reverse the ban on setting up new publicly owned bus companies, provide greater flexibility over bus funding, and help improve bus services for communities that choose not to pursue public control.

Alongside the bill, the Government has launched a consultation on new draft guidance to provide advice and support for local leaders looking to bring services into public control.

According to the Government, the new guidance will help break down barriers to local control of bus services, speeding up the process and bringing down costs.

The guidance also encourages local transport authorities to consider driver welfare and passenger safety, including anti-social behaviour and violence against women and girls.

Commenting on the package of bus reforms, Transport Secretary Louise Haigh said: "After decades of failed deregulation, local leaders will finally have the powers to provide services that deliver for passengers.

"And we are taking steps to support local leaders to deliver improved bus services faster and cheaper than ever before."

Cllr Adam Hug, transport spokesperson for the Local Government Association, meanwhile noted that the measures "recognise the fundamental role of local leadership in shaping future bus provision".

Adam Carey