13/02/2017

New and improved partnerships between local authorities and bus operators to operate bus services and new powers at local level to franchise them are among issues covered by a Dept for Transport consultation on draft regulations and guidance related to priority measures in the Bus Services Bill.

‘Bus Services Bill: draft regulations and guidance’ also introduces ‘open data’ provisions, which require bus operators to make information about routes, fares and the operation of their service open and accessible.

The ultimate aim of the Bill is to help reverse the trend that saw the number of bus passengers in England continue to decline last year and patronage of private bus operators fall for the first time for 6 years.

Partnerships between bus operators and local authorities who share the same objectives are described as the ‘bedrock’ on which future bus strategy will be built.

New enhanced partnerships require local authorities and bus operators to agree their own plans for improvements, identifying the problems that prevent people in their area from travelling by bus and doing something about it.

As an alternative to partnerships, new powers to franchise services will automatically be available to combined authorities with directly elected mayors. Other local authorities will require the secretary of state’s authority to access franchising power.

In addition to 9 draft regulations necessary to bring the new measures into force, the consultation seeks views on draft guidance and detailed questionnaires. Responses are required by 21 March.

Further regulations relating to the open data, enhanced partnership and franchising proposals are currently being developed and will be published for consultation later this year.