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 of reviewing supported bus services, helping the county council’s transport team make decisions on how its limited funding is used across the network.
It will use subsidy cost per passenger journey as well as wider considerations including access to jobs, education, healthcare and community connectivity.
Supported bus services receive council funding because they are not commercially viable but provide important links for communities, particularly in rural areas. The reviews are also required to ensure the council continues to meet government expectations linked to bus funding.
Bus services play a vital role in Staffordshire, supporting around 13.6 million passenger journeys every year and connecting people with employment, training, services and leisure opportunities.
The new framework aims to ensure reviews are fair, transparent and focused on maintaining a bus network which works for communities, while providing continued value for money for taxpayers.
Andrew Mynors, Staffordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Connectivity, said:
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.
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 after next week’s cabinet meeting, but additional services include the new 151 Stone to Rugeley route, which launched in September with encouraging initial passenger numbers.
