MPs have overwhelmingly backed new legislation giving local authorities greater power to safeguard ‘socially necessary’ bus routes.
The Bus Services (No. 2) Bill passed in the House of Commons by 362 votes to 87, aiming to make it harder for bus companies to cut services vital to communities.
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander described the bill as ‘the biggest change to our buses in a generation,’ promising improved passenger services, greener fleets, enhanced accessibility and safety standards, and better integration with local transport networks.
Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham has backed the Bill, describing it as ‘vital to reforming transport networks across the country, putting power back in the hands of locally accountable leaders to ensure services meet the needs of the communities they serve.’
