Published on Monday 29 November 2021
You can now have your say in our Bus Back Better survey, which opened today. This is a chance for bus users and local residents to give their views to help improve bus provision across Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole.
In March 2021, government published the Bus Back Better: National Bus Strategy for England. Subsequently, In October 2021, BCP Council published its Bus Services Improvement Plan (BSIP) which was developed in partnership with local bus operators; Yellow Buses, more and First Bus Wessex.
The BSIP details the existing bus offer currently available to residents and visitors in the BCP area, the challenges to increasing bus use and then proposals for improvement. These proposals were informed by existing research and engagement, however information gathered through this new survey will be valuable to guide priorities based on local needs.
Councillor Mike Greene, Portfolio Holder for Sustainability and Transport, said: "We want our bus service to be fit for purpose and be the transport of choice for residents and visitors. Sustainable public transport, which is efficient, convenient and cost effective, will bring benefits to not just the individual. Sustainable transport will play a key part in our goal to tackling climate change. "
The new survey asks for views on 11 specific actions which were identified in the BSIP.
Councillor Mike Greene continued: "We need to tackle the misconceptions of bus travel and address the negative perception that many people have. We want bus travel to be accessible, comfortable and quicker, and we know that making improvements to the service is the best way for us to encourage behaviour change.
"I encourage everyone to take part in this survey, not just regular bus users."
Following this short survey, the next stage will be to finalise the Enhanced Partnership Plan and Enhanced Partnership Scheme which will commence on 31 March 2022. The EP Plan will run from April 2022 until March 2025, whilst the EP Scheme will be reviewed on an annual basis.
Have your Say
The Bus Back Better: Improved bus services survey closes on 7 January 2022.
Take part by visiting haveyoursay.bcpcouncil.gov.uk/bus-better or visiting one of our libraries for a paper-copy version.
Additonal information
For more information on the BSIP for Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole, visit- National Bus Strategy for England (bcpcouncil.gov.uk)
A useful list of FAQs can be found here- FAQs | Bus Back Better Consultation | Have Your Say Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (bcpcouncil.gov.uk)