Is local authority in-house operation really a threat?
That two local authorities (LAs) decided in 2022 to take in-house the operation of some formerly contracted passenger transport is notable. But with changes...
Time for political honesty on industry funding reality
That Deputy Minister for Climate Change Lee Waters acknowledges that the Welsh Government has little idea of where money for its grand plans to...
No end to diesel without infrastructure for zero-emission
Amid the success of Euro Bus Expo – where zero-emission dominated metal from the bus sector and talk in coaches was thick of the...
Time for a rethink on young driver 50km restriction?
The 50km, regular service restriction that applies to each very young category D driver is an accepted part of the licencing regime. But for...
Is political view of the industry starting to change?
Upheaval in government following Liz Truss’s ascent to the post of Prime Minister has been overshadowed by the sad passing of Her Majesty Queen...
Young people: An under-represented source of staff?
Bringing in young recruits has long been seen as a saviour to the industry’s never-ending difficulties in finding enough people to drive and maintain...
BSOG reform in England: Why is it progressing so slowly?
In March 2021, the Department for Transport committed via the National Bus Strategy (NBS) to reform BSOG in England. It laid down several areas...
Time for political action on diesel prices is now, Chancellor
Diesel prices are causing great strife for operators that cannot hedge supplies. Some increases can be recovered via rates or fares, but others cannot....
Will leisure travel be the bus industry’s saviour?
Bus industry opinion on the scope of post-COVID-19 passenger recovery varies. Informed analysis says that sector-wide, at most 91% of pre-pandemic usage will return...
Home-to-school contracts: Fuel price escalator needed soon
Diesel costs are never far removed from industry discussions. One operator recently paid 170ppl for a bulk delivery. While that is high even by...