January 18 2024
- Trade body for UK bus and coach sector launches manifestos ahead of the General Election
- Driving Britain Forward sets out a six-point plan for the next Government to maximise the benefits of buses
- Access All Areas details how the power of the coach network can be unlocked for everyone
CPT has announced its priorities for the next UK Government, with the launch of its manifestos for bus and coach, at its 2024 conference held today in London.
Access All Areas sets out how the next Government can help to unleash the full potential of the coach network, while Driving Britain Forward outlines six key points to unlock the economic, net zero and social wellbeing potential of buses.
In Access All Areas, CPT is calling on the Government to back the UK’s coach sector by:
- Issuing clear guidance to councils to include coach services in their local transport plans (LTPs)
- Viewing coaches as part of the solution to local air pollution
- Working with industry on a net zero strategy for coaches
- Simplifying the legislation on accessible travel
- Supporting an industry-led workforce strategy
Commenting on the launch of the manifesto for the UK’s coach sector, Graham Vidler, CPT’s CEO said:
“The coach industry is proud to be self-sufficient but engagement from the Government can take the power of coach to a whole new level. With the right support, coaches can connect even more people to more destinations, boosting local economies and massively cut carbon emissions. It is about time that this hidden gem of the British public transport mix is brought into the spotlight.”
Driving Britain Forward calls on the next Government to implement:
- A five year funding settlement for the UK bus sector
- Targeted measures to keep fares low when the national fares cap ends
- National and local targets to increase bus speeds
- A new statutory, funded definition of essential bus services
- A long-term government-industry partnership to drive the transition to zero emission bus travel
- A workforce strategy led by industry, supported by government
Commenting on the launch of the manifesto for the UK bus sector, Alison Edwards, CPT’s Director of Policy and External Relations, said:
“With a general election looming, as well as numerous Mayoral elections in May, CPT will continue to keep the pressure on current and future politicians to help us deliver more of the vital bus services that can revitalise local economies, keep communities connected and minimise the impact of travel on the environment.”
ENDS
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