UK government allocates £45 million to improve North East bus services

The Department for Transport (DfT) has announced that Transport North East, on behalf of the North East Joint Transport Committee, will receive £45.6 million to implement the bus service improvement plan (BSIP), aimed at enhancing local bus services, reducing journey times and offering lower fares to passengers.

This funding supplements the previous UK government investment of £117.8 million, bringing the total allocated funds for improving bus services in the North East to £163.5 million since 2022. These developments follow the recent introduction of a £1 fare for individuals under 22 and the provision of free travel passes for 18 to 25-year-old care-experienced individuals, both made possible through government funding.

Improved local bus services are crucial for the growth of the economy, enabling residents to save money and conveniently access workplaces, shopping centres, medical appointments and visit loved ones.

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Roads Minister Richard Holden said: “Tens of thousands of people across Tyne and Wear, Northumberland and County Durham rely on the bus to get around every day. That’s why we’re confirming over £45 million to improve local bus services and help build the modern, reliable and affordable bus network all residents in the North East deserve.”

Councillor Martin Gannon, Chair of the North East Joint Transport Committee, said: “I‘m pleased to welcome this funding, which brings our region’s total bus service improvement plan award to £163.5 million. Our region came together and created a truly ambitious BSIP, so I’m delighted that our determination to improve the transport network for passengers has been recognised.”

Furthermore, over £1 billion has been allocated to assist local authorities in implementing long-term plans to enhance bus services, culminating in a total government investment of £3.5 billion since 2020. These measures reflect the commitment to level up transportation, help individuals save on travel expenses and foster economic growth through improved bus services.