Bus fares to get cheaper in Stoke-on-Trent
Bus services have been given a near £32-million funding boost
Last updated 5th Apr 2022
Stoke-on-Trent is one of thirty-one authorities to be chosen for multi-million-pound funding to level up local bus services.
The city is receiving a package worth around £31.7-million in total from the Government's bus transformation programme.
Councillor Dan Jellyman, Stoke-on-Trent City Council cabinet member for regeneration, infrastructure and heritage, said: “This funding is more good news for our city and our commitment to improve sustainable public transport.
“We submitted draft plans to government in November based on improving the frequency of buses, shorter journey times, longer bus operating hours, a review of bus fares, improving accessibility and greater information at bus stops with improved safety measures.
“They’re the most comprehensive proposals to improve bus travel in Stoke-on-Trent in generations, based on a detailed understanding of what our residents need and deserve, and were developed in consultation with bus operators. Now these plans are backed by major national in-principal investment, and we will be working hard now to finalise these plans to deliver for residents.
Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said: “Buses are the most popular way of getting around in this country – but for too long people outside of London have had a raw deal.
“The investment we’re making will drive down fares at a time when people’s finances are tight and help connect communities across England.”
Dan Jellyman added: “We're serious about levelling up Stoke on Trent and working for residents and businesses to improve our infrastructure meaning journeys to work, into College or University or to see a loved one is made as easy as possible. We're investing heavily in our transport network and are already using £29m from the transforming cities fund to improve transport links on key routes for the benefit of all road users.”
The announcements, along with the funding of zero emission buses, and the bus elements of the increased City Region Sustainable Transport Settlements, form part of the £3-billlion for bus transformation announced in 2020. Around £2bn has also been paid to support bus and light rail services during the pandemic.
The Government is also confirming that tram and light rail operators across the Midlands and the North will also benefit from over £37m of Government support, with Manchester (£20.5m), the North East Nexus (£7.3m), the West Midlands (£2.7m), Sheffield (£4m) and Nottingham (£3.3m).
This money will be used to ensure light rail services continue to run and millions of passengers can continue to get around as the country emerges from the pandemic.
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