Kent allocated £78.2m to 'rebuild confidence in buses'

The government has revealed a major investment plan for bus services, allocating a total of 3 billion to local authorities nationwide over the next three years. Kent County Council will receive 78.2 million from this funding package.

Local councils will have full flexibility in deciding how to use the funds to improve bus services in their areas.

Buses and Roads Minister Simon Lightwood explained that new "socially necessary" routes will be introduced, ensuring that the effects on passengers are considered when proposals to discontinue unprofitable routes are made.

Speaking to BBC Radio Kent, Mr Lightwood said, "Councils have been constrained by short-term funding for years, making meaningful improvements difficult. This changes that. Local leaders can now use this money to enhance buses, improve reliability, and introduce cleaner, zero-emission vehicles."

He added, "My goal is to restore public trust in buses. People need to be confident that buses will arrive on time, take them where they need to go, and remain affordable."

The government also emphasized that under-used and rural bus routes will receive additional support to prevent closures. Campaigners have long criticized the fact that councils often cover the cost of keeping unprofitable routes running.

While operators can continue collecting fares on subsidized routes, Mr Lightwood highlighted that the Bus Services Act, which became law in October, will offer protections for routes that are not financially viable.

He explained, "We are introducing socially necessary bus routes. Local transport authorities will identify areas of social need, providing extra safeguards and ensuring that the impact on passengers is carefully evaluated. This may include alternative solutions like community transport if changes are needed."

Author: Jackson Miller