123414

Local authorities often lack the allocated budget to support non-commercial services, resulting in the loss of vital transport links.

Commit to improving bus speeds by 10% over the lifespan of Bus Service Improvement Plans (BSIPs) to increase service attractiveness and viability. 5. Conclusion 123414

Legislative changes should mandate the provision of services that fill commercial gaps to ensure universal basic connectivity. Local authorities often lack the allocated budget to

This report examines the current state of bus service provision, focusing on the emergence of "transport deserts" in rural areas and the need for strategic government intervention. It highlights the misalignment between local transport authority (LTA) budgets and the growing need for sustainable, reliable public transport to meet net-zero targets. leading to significant regional disparities.

The Government should develop Strategic Transport Objectives that focus on sustainable transport (active travel and public transport) to provide LTAs with a clear mandate.

The objective of this report is to analyze the challenges facing commercial and subsidized bus services. As identified in the Written Evidence (123414), current legislation does not mandate the provision of services to fill gaps in commercial provision, leading to significant regional disparities.