This week we received welcome confirmation of government’s commitment to fast track funding for 4,000 more zero carbon buses. However, with the sector struggling to restart from the pandemic, we need a more comprehensive plan in the form of the long promised national bus strategy.
Buses deliver billions for the economy, connect communities and help with congestion. The entire industry, from operators to bus manufacturers and the supply chain, is ready and waiting to work with government and local authorities to ensure every region across the country has a reliable, clean and efficient bus network to return to as we emerge from lockdown.
Despite the great difficulties the industry continues to face there are some good news stories out there, with some coach operations safely restarting this week. And we also, after much effort, negotiation and discussion with DfT and the DVSA, finally have the MoT service back up and running for commercial vehicles – another step on the long road back to normality. Road passenger transport is a reliable and efficient sector, capable of innovation and growth, and key to a green recovery for the nation – but right now it urgently needs support to bring passengers back on board and deliver new orders for the UK’s production lines.
