County receives £31 million to enhance bus services

The government has committed over 10 million annually for the next three years to enhance bus transportation throughout Cambridgeshire. In total, 31 million will be allocated to the Cambridgeshire & Peterborough Combined Authority, which will determine the best way to utilize the funds.

Previously, the authority has received funding for public transport, including earlier this year when money was used to extend the 2 fare cap. The 10 million forms part of a larger 309 million investment for the East of England.

Local councils traditionally received yearly allocations, but this new announcement provides clarity on funding for the next three years. Simon Lightwood, Minister for Roads and Buses at the Department for Transport, commented that short-term funding had previously limited long-term improvements. "This new approach allows local leaders to plan effectively," he said, emphasizing that the authority understands the needs of its communities.

Recently, under Conservative Mayor Paul Bristow, the combined authority pledged to subsidize certain rural bus routes while discontinuing a service that cost 100 per passenger. The authority also runs the Tiger Pass, offering discounted fares of 1 per journey for passengers under 25.

The combined authority has yet to provide a response regarding the latest funding announcement.

Author: Riley Thompson