A new framework, designed to ensure public funding for supported bus services brings the greatest benefit for Staffordshire residents, is set to be approved. The proposed framework will formalise a consistent, evidence-based method for reviewing supported bus services, assisting the county council’s transport team in making decisions on how its limited funding is allocated across the network. It will consider factors such as subsidy cost per passenger journey alongside wider considerations including access to jobs, education, healthcare, and community connectivity.
Supported bus services receive council funding as they are not commercially viable but provide crucial links for communities, particularly in rural areas. These reviews are also essential to ensure the council continues to meet government expectations regarding bus funding. Bus services are vital in Staffordshire, facilitating approximately 13.6 million passenger journeys annually and connecting people with employment, training, services, and leisure opportunities.
The new framework aims to ensure that reviews are fair, transparent, and focused on maintaining a bus network that serves communities effectively, while also delivering continued value for money for taxpayers. Andrew Mynors, Staffordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Connectivity, stated, "Good bus services are vital for residents, communities and our local economy, which is why it's important that the funding we receive is used where it can make the biggest difference."
He added, "This framework will give us a clear, transparent and evidence-based way of assessing supported bus services, helping ensure we get the best value for money for Staffordshire taxpayers while continuing to support people who rely on local buses. It will ensure decisions are based on data, while also recognising the wider role buses play in connecting people to work, education, healthcare and other essential services."
Details of individual services included in the current review will be publicised following next week’s cabinet meeting. This includes additional services such as the new 151 Stone to Rugeley route, which was launched in September and has shown encouraging initial passenger numbers.
