I’m delighted that Buckinghamshire is set to receive £9,547,266 as part of the Government’s landmark £3 billion investment to transform bus services across England. We’ve long-needed improved public transport options. This investment will help us introduce more frequent services and greener buses, making it easier for people to travel affordably and sustainably. It will also help deliver better buses, more services, and improved reliability for thousands of passengers in the county.
This funding is a vital part of the Government’s plans to enact the biggest reform to England’s bus system in 40 years, putting power in the hands of the communities who need it the most. The funding could be used to lower the prices of fares, introduce new routes and zero-emission buses, or create safer bus stops.
Under Labour’s plans, local leaders rather than Whitehall will decide how bus services should be run, ensuring services are run for people, not profit. The multi-year settlement gives Buckinghamshire Council the certainty it needs to plan long-term improvements. For years, local authorities have been held back from making these investments, but this funding will allow Buckinghamshire to shape services around the needs of its communities.
This announcement follows the Bus Services Act, which empowers councils to run services in ways that best serve local people and protect socially necessary routes.
Callum Anderson MP (Buckingham and Bletchley) said:
This funding is brilliant for Buckinghamshire. Reliable and affordable buses mean better access to jobs, education, and healthcare for our residents – especially as our area plays a key role in the Oxford Cambridge Growth Corridor. Improved transport links will help unlock opportunities across the region and ensure our area benefits from sustainable growth.
Laura Kyrke-Smith MP (Aylesbury) added:
I’m delighted that Buckinghamshire will benefit from this £9.5 million investment to improve local bus services. Reliable, affordable and accessible public transport is something residents across Aylesbury and our villages raise with me regularly, and this funding is a really important step towards delivering the better services our communities deserve.
Minister for Roads and Buses, Simon Lightwood, said:
For too long passengers have been let down by unreliable services and route cuts. This £3 billion boost will change that, providing lower fares, more frequent and safer journeys – helping ease the cost of living and making it easier for people to get to work, hospital appointments, and social plans.