The Bus Services Act has officially become law, giving local authorities the power to step in when vital routes are under threat.
The law is aimed at preventing last-minute cuts to bus services that support jobs, education and community access. It also empowers councils to launch their own bus companies.
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander said: ‘By making it easier for local leaders to take control of their buses we are putting passengers first, improving access to jobs, education and tourism opportunities which are all vital to growing the economy – a fundamental part of our Plan for Change.’
Corinne Pluchino, chief executive of Action with Communities in Rural England (ACRE), said: ‘The lack of reliable, affordable public transport in rural areas is a widespread problem which impacts on those in greatest need and holds back economic growth.
‘We welcome the new measures to require the identification and listing of socially necessary local services, and new requirements if bus operators want to cancel or change them. This is an important first step to achieving better rural bus services, and ACRE looks forward to working with government to ensure the Act delivers positive change for rural communities.’
