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West Berkshire Council calls for residents to take part in bus survey




West Berkshire Council is seeking views on changes that have been made to bus services and those that will be made in the future.

In 2021, the Government launched the National Bus Strategy to provide funding to councils to build better bus services with simpler fares, thousands of new buses, improved routes and higher frequencies.

However, this can only be achieved if buses are made more practical and attractive as an alternative form of transport.

Newbury Bus Station
Newbury Bus Station

Last summer, West Berkshire Council appealed for public opinions on local bus services which helped create the Bus Service Improvement Plan (BSIP) submitted to the Department for Transport.

The BSIP found that significant improvements could be made, including additional drivers, increased use of non-cash purchasing on board, more direct services and better management of the roads.

The council has suggested to the department how funding could be used over a three-year period and is awaiting its response.

But in the meantime, the local authority needs residents' help in the bus survey to inform it how it can best provide bus services for residents.

Richard Somner (Con, Tilehurst South and Holybrook), executive member for planning, transport and countryside at West Berkshire Council, said: “It is really important for us to hear from residents and bus users to understand your views on the changes and improvements that we are looking to make with the funding we have been awarded.

“We know bus usage is fast becoming an alternative way to travel and commute, especially after our free weekend offers have seen an increase in numbers, but more importantly from a cost saving and environmental point of view.

"That’s why we need you to have your say and to find out how satisfied you are with local public bus services in your area.”

To take part, complete the survey https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/wbbussurvey2022 by midnight on Sunday, July 3.

Paper copies of the survey are available on request by emailing transport@westberks.gov.uk with your details.



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