‘Kickstart’ funding for buses – a good start, but much more needed
25 March 2010
Campaign for Better Transport welcomed the Government’s announcement of ‘Kickstart’ bus funding but said that much more was needed. [1]
Richard Hebditch, the campaigns director of Campaign for Better Transport, said:
“Good bus services are fundamental to sustainable transport, and Kickstart helps upgrade bus services and make them self-sufficient as well as reduce car dependency. That’s why we championed this funding – and we’re pleased the Government has listened to us. [2]
“We’re especially pleased to see that funding is included for the St Albans quality network partnership. We have been involved in this as a pilot for area-wide partnerships that can plan bus improvements across a whole area. This follows our work on reforming the application of competition law so that bus operators can work in partnership without fear of action by the Office of Fair Trading.
“However, £15m is a drop in the ocean and much more is needed. While politicians get excited about big long-term transport projects, better buses will improve everyday transport now. With spending cuts expected after the election, value for money schemes like this can make public spending go further. We hope the next Government will expand this scheme and fund further kickstart projects.”
Notes to Editors:
[1] The Department of Transport announced the move in a press release today.
[2] Campaign for Better Transport has lobbied to ensure kickstart funding goes ahead, including writing to Transport Minister Sadiq Khan
