Local Bus Service Consultation

Written by Christine Marshall on Tuesday, 18th July 2023. Posted in Latest News

From: Cllr Lee Scott – Member CC <Cllr.Lee.Scott@essex.gov.uk>

As discussed at Essex County Council May Cabinet, we have today launched our Supported Local Bus Services 2024 – 2028 consultation.  (Decision Details: Supporting Local Bus Services – 2024 onwards (essex.gov.uk).

One of the issues I know we all agree on is the importance of bus services to many of our residents and communities, to ensure that we are engaging with as wider an audience as possible, I ask you all to publicise this consultation – and bus use more generally – in your communities in as many ways as you can.

Some key points that you may find useful to know are:

• Consultation is open now until 5^th October 2023. We are consulting on 3 groups of services:
  • The vast majority where we are proposing no change until at least 2028
  • An ‘at risk’ group which we will support until at least 2026 but where we are looking for an increase in passenger numbers
  • A low use group which are clearly not meeting the needs of communities
• It’s really easy to participate in the consultation on line – much easier than hard copy because of the number of services on which we’re consulting.
• We are asking Parishes, bus groups and other groups to help those who need support to complete the survey on-line – please ask your local groups too
• If residents would like a hard copy they should first approach their Parish Council.  If they are unable to help they should contact passenger.transport@essex.gov.uk

I am keen that we hear from as many residents as possible and you will know the best way of reaching your communities.

I am grateful to you for your ongoing support for our buses.

Kind regards

Cllr Lee Scott

Portfolio Holder for Highways Maintenance and Sustainable Transport

Email: Cllr.Lee.Scott@essex.gov.uk | www.essex.gov.uk