Agenda item

Transport Committee members received a report from the Interim Head of Transport Policy to provide and update on the state of the local bus network, ongoing delivery of the Bus Service Improvement Plan revenue programme, and request the approval of further funding to support transport programmes.

Officers noted that following the pandemic, passenger levels had stabilised at around 85% compared to pre-pandemic figures. There was a desire to increase patronage using the available BSIP funding by prioritising cheaper fares, increasing service frequencies, and introducing new services. The Mayor’s Fares scheme has supported up to half a million journeys each week, and saved 20% per journey on average in comparison with fares before the implementation of the scheme.

The Combined Authority was working with operators to identify improvements to services through the creation of a shortlist of ten routes. Progress was made more difficult due to potential cuts from operators who still require further funding to continue to run services at the current standard. Three enhanced services were planned for introduction including in Keighley, Shipley, and Halifax, with more routes potentially introduced with future funding.

Officers noted the decision of the West Yorkshire Combined Authority on 25 May regarding bus reform, which concluded that bus franchising was the preferred option subject to audit and consultation. A final decision on bus reform will be made in March 2024.

Officers noted that government support provided bus operators at pre-pandemic rates was due to expire at the end of June 2023, with the uncertainty surrounding an extension causing concern among operators. The government has agreed to provide funding to support the £2 fare cap outside of London, though this does not apply to West Yorkshire since the Mayor’s Fares initiative was already in place. £160 million has been provided to local transport authorities to improve services and infrastructure, with a further £140 million given directly to operators to protect against potential service cuts. Operators have welcomed the funding, however, it was still less than anticipated, resulting in the need for further service reductions. Officers suggested a workshop of Transport Committee members to take place in early June to discuss the ramifications of the announcement and potential next steps.

Members noted that despite the efforts of the Combined Authority and bus operators, the enhanced partnership model has not delivered the required network improvements. Members added that some operators were unwilling to cooperate at all and franchising would help to remove potential barriers. The Chair responded there has been a successful history of partnership working and that franchising was a complex issue that requires much further development.

Members queried the passenger numbers implied by the 85% figure compared to pre-pandemic levels, and if a previous 10% growth target had been abandoned. Officers responded that the data suggested growth in passenger numbers, but the pandemic made meeting the target set in 2019 challenging. Direct comparisons could not be reliably made due to the differences in commuting trends both pre and post pandemic. Members added that the pandemic was a detrimental factor, however growth has increased over the longer term and the focus should remain on long-term sustainability and attracting new passengers to buses. Officers noted that Transport Focus had been conducting research into new passenger trends which could be brought to a future meeting.

Members noted that the tap-on tap-off system was not supported by all operators, leading to confusion among passengers and a hesitancy to use bus services. Members also highlighted the system was not always clear to those who are neurodivergent 

Members questioned if BSIP funding was being used to subsidise bus services when members were previously advised the funding was separate. Officers noted that recent updates to legislation had made it possible to use BSIP funding to support services, and officers were working through the potential implications.

Members queried if the issue of ‘ghost buses’ which appear on real-time display systems but do not arrive was ongoing. Officers clarified that work was being undertaken to address the issue, though it was difficult to address since the information system relies upon updates from operators if services were cancelled.

Resolved: That the BSIP programme update and funding approval request (covered as part of Item 11) be noted.