Transport Secretary, Louise Haigh, has announced new legislation that will allow local leaders to take control of their bus services.
The new ‘Buses Bill’ being laid before parliament today (September 9) will grant all local transport authorities across England new powers previously limited to mayoral combined authorities.
Under this legislation local leaders can deliver services in a way that suits the needs of their communities, the government says.
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. 
“With local communities firmly back in the driving seat, our bus revolution will save vital routes up and down the country and put passengers first.”
The Buses Bill will further 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.
A consultation on new draft guidance to provide advice and support for local leaders to bring services into public control has also been launched by the government.
The government believe this guidance will put the needs of passengers and bus drivers first, encouraging local transport authorities to consider driver welfare and passenger safety, including anti-social behaviour and violence against women and girls.
Jason Prince, Director of the Urban Transport Group, said: “We welcome the pace at which government is moving on its ambitious transport agenda.
“Buses are the cornerstone of our public transport system, so it’s greatly encouraging to see this new package of measures, which will deliver better bus services for more local areas.
We look forward to working with government to create a smoother journey for all bus passengers.”
Silviya Barrett, Director of Policy and Research at Campaign for Better Transport, said: “Allowing local authorities to choose how best to deliver bus services and giving them greater control of routes, fares and standards where needed, could help to sustain and protect bus services, creating a more reliable bus network for all.
Whilst franchising may not be suitable for all areas, everyone should have access to a quality bus service without risk of it being cut, which is why we are also calling for a minimum service level guarantee and long-term, ringfenced funding for all local authorities.”