Transport Minister Simon Lightwood has told routeone that Enhanced Partnerships are still very much “part of the menu” for bus service delivery, and that there is “no one-size-fits-all approach” when it comes to the recently laid Buses Bill.
The Bill, which was set before Parliament in September, represents the beginning of bus service reform in England outside London whereby all local transport authorities (LTAs) will have franchising powers.
However, some areas, such as Leicester, have expressed wariness about franchising and are vocal that partnership has delivered more rapid improvements.
Mr Lightwood spoke to routeone after addressing the Women in Bus and Coach Summit, which appropriately took place in Manchester as it coincided with the conclusion of the government’s consultation into reducing barriers to bus franchising on 8 October.
When asked what role Enhanced Partnerships may play in the revised legislation, Mr Lightwood acknowledged successes in areas like Leicester, and said that such working will still be an option.
“Enhanced Partnerships are still a very important part of the menu for local leaders to use in order to deliver the public transport that their local areas need and deserve,” he says.
“Obviously, there is not going to be a one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to buses. There will be the franchising option which we are looking to make quicker and cheaper to deliver, alongside the lifting of the ban on municipal, publicly operated bus companies… but while still having the option for Enhanced Partnerships.”
When challenged on concerns over the failure of SME operators to secure franchise contracts in Greater Manchester, Mr Lightwood acknowledged those worries and says that addressing the role of SMEs in franchising is a “live part” of the ongoing conversation around the Buses Bill.
“Obviously we’re still working on the scope of the bill, and very much meeting with a number of organisations and hearing those representations to make sure that we are able to acknowledge the important role that SMEs play in our public transport system and in terms of the community transport sector. We have to remember that element as well.
“This is something I’m acutely aware of, and discussing with stakeholders and officials.”
