Yeovil Advocates Seek Priority for £6.8m Bus Funding in Somerset

Advocates have expressed approval for the £6.8 million in government funding designated for bus services within Somerset. This sum represents Somerset Council’s portion of a £1 billion national allocation for the upcoming financial year. Peter Travis, who co-chairs the Somerset Bus Partnership, described the funding as “very encouraging news.” He further stated that Yeovil possesses a “very inadequate bus service” and ought to receive priority for this investment. Jo Reynolds, the president of Yeovil Chamber of Commerce, commented that “more bums on seats” are essential to bolster the town’s bus network. The Somerset Bus Partnership operates as a voluntary organization collaborating with the council to enhance the county’s bus network. Mr. Travis emphasized that Yeovil requires additional funds for bus services “first and foremost,” specifically mentioning evening and weekend routes. He indicated that Bridgwater, an area experiencing “huge development,” would be his subsequent priority. He further remarked, “We need to ensure the bus network matches the potential of the town.” “When £1bn is being divided up we would like even more, but this is a significant amount of money and will make a really material difference to Somerset’s bus network,” he stated. A spokesperson for Somerset Council commented: “This is positive news in terms of supporting our aims to improve bus provision in Somerset. “In broad terms, while it appears to be a fairer allocation, there’s still some way to go in terms of addressing the balance for public transport in deprived rural areas. “We are awaiting full detail on the funding from the Department for Transport. “Once we have this information the council can look at how funding could be used to maximum effect.” Transport Secretary Louise Haigh remarked: “The value of regular and reliable bus services cannot be understated.“For far too long, the South West has been suffering from unreliable services with buses hugely delayed, or not even turning up at all.“This funding kickstarts the bus revolution to bring an end to the postcode lottery of bus services, drive economic growth and make sure people have proper access to jobs and opportunities.” The subject of bus services in Yeovil is among several issues slated for discussion with local MP Adam Dance during a special BBC Radio Somerset interview scheduled for Friday, 22 November. Questions can be submitted beforehand via email to somerset@bbc.co.uk. Individuals can follow BBC Somerset on Facebook and X, and submit story ideas by email or via WhatsApp at 0800 313 4630. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC bears no responsibility for the content found on external sites. Information regarding their approach to external linking is available.