Telford & Wrekin Council has approved plans to ensure its bus services will continue to improve travel and connectivity.
As part of its ongoing commitment to improving public transport, the Council is moving forward with plans to invite bids for new services, due to start in summer 2025.
The improvements are supported by a £3.5 million of government funding and support infrastructure improvements such as additional bus shelters and expanded real-time passenger information.
More than 420,000 trips have been taken on seven new routes since their introduction in December 2022, helping to boost connectivity – particularly in rural areas and less accessible parts of the borough.
New routes and affordable fares have been the backbone of the services, that are informed by passenger feedback. The latest contracts will consider the results of a second public survey including the views of more than 350 residents.
Councillor Ollie Vickers, (Lab) Cabinet Member for the Economy said: “We are proud of the progress we’ve made over the past two years, building a well-connected, efficient transport system that meets the needs of residents, businesses, and visitors alike, along with our continued focus on affordable fares, new routes, and improved services well into the future.
“We have been calling for more government funding into bus travel and it seems our voice has been heard.
“Today’s decision at Cabinet is another step towards services having more positive impacts on thousands of residents. We remain committed to ensuring our network evolves, supports sustainable growth and allows people to be more connected and environmentally friendly.”
The Council will continue to engage with stakeholders to improve services, reflecting the Council’s innovative approach to transport provision. Examples of this include the introduction of demand responsive travel (DRT) services, such as the new pilot scheme in The Gorge Parish area.
Other highlights include the introduction of a £2 fare cap, providing affordable travel for adults and children – including fifty pence promotions at key times to encourage new users.
Finally, the Citymapper app that has been developed for Telford and Wrekin, provides live bus and train arrival times around the borough as well as for onward journeys.
As part of its commitment to environmental sustainability, the Council continues to prioritise the use of solar-powered bus shelters and the potential future use of electric vehicles (EV buses), alongside efforts to reduce carbon emissions.
The Council’s aim is to become carbon neutral by 2030, with the bus network playing a key role in reducing the borough’s carbon footprint.
PIC-TELFORD & WREKIN COUNCIL
