Experts call for urgent bus network reforms to reconnect communities
Leading experts have called on the government to make urgent changes to the UK’s bus network in an appearance at a Transport Select Committee inquiry. The group – including Professor Karen Lucas, Head of the Transport and Mobilities Group at The University of Manchester – spoke about the detrimental impact of poor bus connectivity and the need for immediate government action.
Buses are a lifeline for many communities, providing access to jobs, healthcare and education. However, when networks are unreliable, expensive or fail to meet demand, the most vulnerable groups – including low-income individuals, women, the elderly, disabled people and minority communities – are disproportionately affected.
Professor Lucas joined Silviya Barrett (Campaign for Better Transport), Stephen Frost (IPPR) and Paul Miner (CPRE) to give evidence to the committee, where they urged policymakers to address the growing transport inequalities across the country.
Research presented to the inquiry revealed that nearly 10 million people live in areas with a high risk of transport-related social exclusion, with the North East of England being the most affected. Poor public transport connectivity exacerbates existing inequalities, creating ‘transport deserts’ that leave residents isolated from employment opportunities, essential services and social connections.To secure the future of bus services, the expert panel has put forward a series of recommendations including investment in more frequent and reliable buses, long-term funding settlements, a new statutory requirement to provide socially necessary services and continued support for affordable fares.
The panel urged the Transport Select Committee to ensure their report to the Government includes a focus on the ‘four As’ – Availability, Accessibility, Affordability, and Acceptability. Without addressing these key issues, they point out that millions of people will continue to face transport-related exclusion.
“Buses are an essential public service, yet too many communities are cut off from the bus network – this needs to change,” said Silviya Barrett from Campaign for Better Transport. “The Government must identify gaps in the current network, provide targeted funding to plug those gaps and introduce of a ‘bus service guarantee’ to ensure all communities have access to a good, affordable and reliable bus service in the future.”
“There is an urgent need for reform,” added Professor Lucas. “If the Government takes action now, we can create a sustainable, well-connected bus network that benefits communities, the economy, and public health.”
