Improving local bus services – Transport Focus response to National Audit Office report

02 October 2020

Today the National Audit Office called for a clear national strategy for bus services as passenger numbers fall across England.

David Sidebottom, director of the independent watchdog Transport Focus, said:

“Buses are not just the workhorse of the economy, but a lifeline for many people, helping them get to work, school, hospital and to see family and friends. It is one of the most accessible, cheap, and environmentally friendly ways to travel. We speak to thousands of bus passengers every year and we know that, even in these unsettling times, they’re happy with their bus journeys.

“While they can see plenty of visible things going on to keep them safe such as buses being cleaned, new technology to help them plan and pay for trips and other passengers being reminded to wear face coverings, we know they feel safe on board. But one of the biggest areas for improvement they bring up is better bus networks – more buses going more often to where they want to go. We welcome the news of a long-term strategy to ensure that buses play an even more vital part in building back the economy by providing a great service that meets passengers’ needs.”