September 12 2023

With the DfT’s 12-week call-to-evidence on the PSVAR now closed, thousands of UK bus and coach businesses eagerly wait to hear whether there will be government recommendations or changes to important passenger accessibility regulations.

CPT’s Operations Director, Keith McNally said: “The DfT’s recent call for evidence on PSVAR provided a once-in-a-generation opportunity for our hundreds of CPT members to reflect upon our ongoing commitment to providing accessible journeys for all.

“During the 12 weeks, CPT ensured bus and coach operator members were able to have their say to the Government on how the practicalities of regulations could be improved; this included an exclusive member-only PSVAR event with the Minister and the lead DfT official.

“This event and our wider consultation with CPT’s Bus and Coach Commissions helped form our one-industry response, which calls for a proportionate solution to the needs of wheelchair users who want to travel on in-scope services.

“As a sector we are committed to delivering accessible and affordable travel for all passengers. We continue to call on the Government to ensure the rules are as simple as possible. Where a regular service is open to the general public every vehicle should comply with the regulations, while if it is open to a specific group of passengers then they should have a right to travel on an accessible vehicle if requested.

“As the government now reviews the submissions, CPT will continue to work with the Government to ensure a pragmatic long-term solution to help all operators, no matter how big or small, to comply.”

You can access CPT’s submission on the PSVAR via:

It is expected the government response will be published at the end of 2023 and will set out the next steps for the PSVAR.