Following the publication of the Government’s National Bus Strategy and Greater Manchester’s bus franchising announcement the South Yorkshire Mayor and Local council Leaders have issued the following statement:

“Bus services have been devastated by the Conservatives – since 2010, funding in South Yorkshire has been slashed by 48%. Routes have been reduced. Fares have gone up, and the quality of buses has declined. It’s unacceptable.

“That’s why we’re taking matters into our own hands. In South Yorkshire, we’re supporting young people by extending concessionary travel fares for those aged 21 and below. We’re also investing a further £3.2m in our bus network. Money that will go on our first electric buses, upgrading bus stops, and installing electronic displays.

“Looking to the longer term, we’re urgently working on a plan to ensure cheap fares, improved services and better integration with other transport, as well as conversion to zero-emissions vehicles – it’s the practical detail of what good looks like, and how to get us there quickly. 

“That includes ownership structures. We have to make sure franchising works for us, but it is on the table. Our bottom line is we need a structure that lets us build the service we need.

“We’re determined to build a stronger, greener and fairer economy – and a sustainable, accessible, affordable and reliable bus network is integral to making that happen.”

Mayor Dan Jarvis MP

Cllr Sir Steve Houghton

Mayor Ros Jones

Cllr Chris Read

Cllr Bob Johnson

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