Research by Transport Focus has laid bare one of the major challenges that will face buses as operators prepare for a return towards normal service levels. It shows that 62% of passengers will not feel safe using public transport unless social distancing remains in place.
Additionally, 32% of respondents who previously used public transport but had not within the seven days before they were questioned said they will not do so again for any reason until they feel safe.
Because of that, Transport Focus is now working with London TravelWatch to call on governments and the wider industry to outline how they will reassure users that it will be as safe as possible for them to travel by public transport.
Passengers’ expectations as normal bus service resumes
Transport Focus spoke to 2,000 people between 1-3 May. Many of them have expectations either that measures will be put in place to protect them when they use public transport, or that they will alter their travel habits, once lockdown is eased:
- 83% agree that hand sanitiser should be available on vehicles and at stops
- 60% will drive more rather than use public transport
- 51% would not be happy using public transport unless masks are required
- 51% will cycle and walk more rather than use public transport
- 40% expect to work from home more often.
Only 24% will be happy to use public transport as soon as soon as travel restrictions are relaxed. Worryingly, 29% of those respondents without current access to a car intend to drive more in the future, and 58% of the same group will walk or cycle more rather than use public transport.
Industry’s concerns about dealing with social distancing
The research comes after more than one bus company executive outlined concerns about how services can operate sustainably after existing financial support packages from national governments expire.
It has been suggested that a double-decker will be able to carry no more than 20 passengers if social distancing remains in place. That has led to questions about how enough capacity can be provided when passenger numbers start a rise towards pre-coronavirus COVID-19 levels.
One day before the publication of Transport Focus’s research, Stagecoach Chief Executive Martin Griffiths called for continuing public funding for the industry as buses transition from lockdown conditions towards a resumption of normal service levels while contending with social distancing.
“After months of being told not to travel, people will understandably be fearful about venturing out,” says Transport Focus Chief Executive Anthony Smith.
“The government must outline in its upcoming roadmap for easing lockdown what measures it will put in place to reassure people that they can travel safely.”
Transport Focus and London TravelWatch are also asking the government to promote active travel, which they say will help to mitigate increased congestion if car use is favoured.
People aged 18-24 are most comfortable about returning to public transport. Residents of Scotland and the West Midlands are the happiest about doing so, with those in the North West are the least happy about it.
CPT responds to Transport Focus research
The Confederation of Passenger Transport (CPT) has responded to the Transport Focus report. CPT Chief Executive Graham Vidler has echoed Mr Griffiths’ views by saying that as bus operators expand their networks after lockdown, continued financial support from government will be required.
Mr Vidler has also asked for clarity on what social distancing measures will be in place on buses to ensure that services are safe.
“The public are understandably nervous about returning to normal life, including using public transport,” he continues. “However, operators are doing everything they can, including the use of enhanced cleaning regimes, to keep passengers and staff safe.”
Mr Vidler notes that despite likely reluctance among some people to use public transport once movement restrictions start to be lifted, research shows that the bus industry will still play a central role in moving people.
