"Biggest overhaul to buses in a generation" is announced

The new Buses Bill will put power over bus services back in the hands of local leaders

The Transport Secretary has announced the first stop on journey to Better Buses, with new powers to take control of bus services to be expanded to every community. A consultation on proposed changes to the franchising system has also been launched.

The new draft guidance to provide advice and support for local leaders looking to bring services into public control. This new, simplified guidance will help break down barriers to local control of bus services, speeding up the process and bringing down costs.

Legislation is being laid before Parliament which gives all local transport authorities across England new powers to run their own bus services – powers previously limited to mayoral combined authorities. The move means that local leaders across the country can deliver services in a way that suits the needs of their communities.

The new Buses Bill, which will follow this first statutory instrument, will bring an end to the current "postcode lottery" by taking steps to improve bus services no matter where you live, says the Government. But as industry experts point out, we'll have to wait until after the Budget to see if new finding is committed to improving bus services.

The Buses Bill will also reverse the ban on setting up new publicly-owned bus companies, provide greater flexibility over bus funding and will take steps to improve bus services for communities who choose not to pursue public control.

Graham Vidler, CEO, Confederation of Passenger Transport UK, said: "It's about time we started focusing on a mode of transport that accounts for two thirds of all public transport journeys. Today's announcement won't do it by itself, though, the tough decisions for government lie ahead, particularly in next month's budget. Will they continue to support local authorities in investing in bus services in the way the last government did? Will they commit to the an extension of the national £2 fare cap beyond New Year's Eve, when it's currently scheduled to end?"

Since 2010, almost 300 million fewer miles have been driven by buses per year.  Transport Secretary, Louise Haigh, said: "Buses are the lifeblood of our communities, but for too many people it has become impossible to rely on local services, as routes have been slashed and timetables hollowed out. 

"Today is the first stop on our journey to delivering better buses across the country. After decades of failed deregulation, local leaders will finally have the powers to provide services that deliver for passengers."

Councillor Adam Hug, transport spokesperson for the Local Government Association, said: "Buses remain critical to local government’s efforts to ensure that everyone can benefit from inclusive economic growth and job opportunities, and to prevent social isolation by making local services more accessible; they also continue to play a vital role in reducing carbon and other harmful emissions.

"These proposed measures recognise the fundamental role of local leadership in shaping future bus provision, which the LGA has long been calling for."