A new bill has been announced that will change the system for buses, allowing “local leaders” to “take control of their local bus services”.
Following the King’s Speech at the State Opening of Parliament, around 35 draft laws were announced, including plans on illegal migration, housing and planning, and nationalising the railways.
“Securing economic growth is our primary mission”, King Charles said, adding that his government wanted to see “rising living standards” and intended to pursue “sustainable growth”.
The Better Buses bill aims to completely transform the current system, as local leaders will be allowed to franchise local bus services.
Restrictions on the creation of new publicly owned bus operators will also be lifted.
This is set to affect millions across the UK, as buses are the most commonly used mode of public transport in Britain, and are disproportionately used by those on lower incomes.
A 2022 National Travel Survey found that 25 percent of bus journeys in England outside London were to get to school, and 22 per cent were to get to work.
“A modern transport network is vital to kickstarting economic growth”, an official statement read. “Buses are the lifeblood of our communities, connecting us to opportunities, providing access to services, improving air quality and tackling climate change.
“However, it is widely accepted that the current system is not working for passengers. The Better Buses Bill will deliver improved services up and down the country, and support local leaders to create the transport networks that are right for their communities.”
The bill is expected to extend to England and Wales.
According to a University of Leeds study, bus commuters add around £64 billion annually to the economy, making it an important part of the wider trnasport industry.
Additionally, buses are considered vital for the 35-40 per cent of households in places like Hull and Newcastle that do not have access to a car, the report indicated as it explained the key motivations behind the bill.