PC Coaches of Lincoln has underlined its existing view that SME operators are imperative to the future of rural bus services and questioned the extent of political understanding and recognition of the role that those businesses already play.
Managing Director Stephen Bryce claims that PC Coaches – which delivers extensive local bus and home-to-school provision in addition to its coach activities – was not invited to participate a Transport Roadshow in Lincolnshire.
That event was assembled by Mayor of Greater Lincolnshire Andrea Jenkyns to engage with residents on the future of transport in the region. Mr Bryce says the employee-owned operator was “disappointed” that SMEs were not invited to be part of the roadshow, which utilised a Stagecoach East Midlands bus.
Mr Bryce adds that he supports the decision to engage with passengers and communities across Greater Lincolnshire on transport, but notes how the event was presented as “a county-wide conversation” about that.
He stresses that Stagecoach leading the operator presence at the event is not a concern to PC Coaches, but that authorities appear to have overlooked “the significant contribution made by independent operators” in Greater Lincolnshire. Mr Bryce adds how some of that is seen where larger operators have previously reduced or withdrawn services.
The PC Coaches chief points to a recent almost-£600,000 investment in two Alexander Dennis Enviro400 double-decks for route 50 between Lincoln and Mablethorpe. The firm took on that service in 2023 and will further improve it in partnership with stakeholders shortly.
Mr Bryce says the route 50 work is “a perfect example of the role independent operators play in supporting rural communities.”
He adds: “There remains a perception in some quarters that public transport is delivered primarily by large national operators. The reality is that independent operators are often the backbone of rural transport networks. We are flexible, innovative, and deeply connected to the communities we serve.”
The operator believes that development of a future transport strategy for Greater Lincolnshire will benefit from greater engagement with the SME bus operator field. That would give policymakers “access to the practical experience and local knowledge of operators working on the front line of rural transport provision every day,” it says.
Concludes Mr Bryce: “If we are serious about improving public transport across Greater Lincolnshire, then all operators need a seat at the table.
“Independent operators bring valuable experience, local knowledge and a proven track record of delivering services in some of the most challenging rural environments in the country. Future transport discussions should reflect the full range of organisations that keep Lincolnshire moving.”
