Under-Secretary of State for Transport Simon Lightwood (pictured, third from left) has underlined the government’s belief that community transport has a part to play in work to give greater local control of bus services in England.
While that overarching policy of the Labour government is well-known, Mr Lightwood used a visit to Westway Community Transport in London on 17 October to recognise the efforts of community transport organisations.
The Department for Transport says that as formulation of plans to give greater control of bus services to local authorities accelerate, “the government is exploring how this initiative can incorporate the community transport sector.”
It adds that under the forthcoming Buses Bill in England, there will be scope for local authorities and community transport organisation to work together to help increase bus passenger numbers and deliver better networks.
“Community transport plays a vital role in providing these services, so we are working to ensure that they are part of the solution,” says Mr Lightwood. His trip to Westway formed part of wider work to recognise Community Transport Week between 14-18 October.
“Community transport services are a lifeline for so many people, which is why I was delighted to visit Westway today to celebrate the incredible work of operators up and down the country. We are committed to improving our local networks, to make them more inclusive and enable vulnerable people to travel safely, confidently, and with dignity.”
During his visit, Mr Lightwood spoke with Westway Deputy CEO Ryan Price about how the government can further support the work of community transport organisations.
CEO Kathleen Lyons welcomed Mr Lightwood’s stop at the operator’s Westbourne Park base. “It has never been more important to showcase the work of community transport,” she says.
“We are an essential part of the local transport mix – particularly for those who find public transport difficult to use – and a key component in any plan to tackle loneliness and social exclusion.”
