Research published today by The Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT), reveals the key concerns among service operators arising from the Department for Transport’s (DfT’s) Buses Reform agenda, as it moves forward with the recent publication of the Bus Services Bill.

In depth interviews with senior directors at the five large operating groups, five medium-size and some smaller operators, found there is cross-industry anxiety that the reform process has curtailed service innovations and investment in the short-term; and could discourage entrepreneurial talent from entering in the industry in the future.

Operators of all sizes were keen on increased partnership working but concerned that local authorities do not have the financial resources or political commitment to deliver their part. 

Keith Homer, Managing Director, MM Transport Planning, led the research for CILT and said: ‘We found three key themes from the research: traffic congestion is undermining the commercial viability of urban services; the buses reform process is affecting service development and fleet investment decisions; and there is a stark contrast between positive expectations for urban areas and pessimism about rural services.’

Protel Fieldwork found the industry eager to engage with the research. James Latham, Operations Director, Protel Fieldwork said: ‘Respondents had clearly thought a lot about the issues at stake, and were very willing to share their views.’

Austin Birks, Chair, CILT Bus & Coach Forum, said: “CILT represents the whole transport industry; service operators, government and local authorities and academic researchers. While the research is clearly with just one part of the industry, we believe that the findings will be of interest to all who want to promote better bus services.’

The research report can be found here.