Department for Transport Allocates £15m to Enhance Norfolk’s Bus Services

The Department for Transport has allocated £15 million to Norfolk, earmarked for enhancements to the county’s bus services. This funding is part of a broader investment of approximately £1 billion directed towards services across England, excluding London. A portion of this larger sum will support a cap on single bus fares, which increased to £3 last month, remaining in effect until the close of 2025. The Conservatives have voiced criticism regarding this fare increase, labeling it an “attack” on working people and pensioners. Transport Secretary Louise Haigh commented, stating: “The value of regular and reliable bus services cannot be understated.” She further added: “For far too long, the East of England has been suffering from unreliable services with buses hugely delayed, or not even turning up at all.” Early in 2024, an increase in bus passenger figures within Norfolk was attributed to supplementary funding provided by the preceding government. Government proposals indicate that local authorities would gain the ability to implement a franchising system similar to London’s, empowering them to determine routes, timetables, and fares, with operators then submitting bids to provide these services for a set charge. Additionally, the government has committed to lifting the prohibition on bus companies that are publicly owned. Graham Plant, who serves as Norfolk County Council’s cabinet member for highways and transport, expressed his delight regarding the funding announcement. He noted that while the precise allocation of the funds was yet to be determined, the money would contribute to the council’s initiatives aimed at increasing bus ridership. He stated: “By delivering more frequent services, schemes that make bus travel quicker and more reliable, as well as improving waiting areas and providing easy access real-time information, we’re seeing bus passenger numbers continue to rise across the county.” Stephen Hewitt, representing the East Norfolk Transport Users Association passenger group, identified bus-stop infrastructure and real-time information as key priorities. James Wild, the Conservative MP for North West Norfolk, commented that the government should expand upon the investments initiated by prior administrations. He asserted: “Buses are essential to help people get around Norfolk to work, to school, to access essential services and for socialising.” He also expressed disapproval of the choice to raise the level at which fares are capped. Wild remarked: “Hiking the bus fare cap by 50% will hit people who rely on bus routes which offered lower fares.” For updates on Norfolk news, follow BBC Sounds, Facebook, Instagram, and X. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC bears no responsibility for the content found on external websites. Information regarding our external linking policy is available.