Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority launch survey on bus service that’s ‘not good enough’

A six-week public survey on Cambridgeshire and Peterborough bus services and how they can be reformed will be launched on Monday (November 4).

The public will have the opportunity to give feedback on the current bus network, what they think is working and what could be improved.

They will also be asked for their views on ways to improve services with the greater use of technology, such as driverless shuttles and more use of alternative fuels.

Launched by the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority as part of an ongoing reform of the area’s bus network, it will include focus groups and a survey that can be completed online or by phone.

Mayor James Palmer said: “Buses form a fundamental component of the public transport offering across Cambridgeshire and Peterborough, however, the bus network that we currently have is simply not good enough.

“Services are frequently in decline, particularly in rural or less prosperous areas, key employment areas are not linked, and bus routes are not properly integrated with other points of transport such as rail stations. This has major social impacts and harms our prosperity as it limits opportunities for those unable to travel by car.

“We will keep an open mind as to how the bus network could be improved, including exploring new ways of delivering bus services, such as franchising and enhanced partnerships.

“Transport is something that affects everyone, so the input of the public is vitally important, and I strongly encourage people to come forward with their views on how bus services can be levelled up.”

Respondents will be asked to comment on current levels of satisfaction with bus services and their support for a range of suggested improvements including more frequent services, an expansion of the bus network and new routes.

The results of the public survey will be used as evidence for what needs to change and will be taken forward by the authority and developed into a plan.

The authority recently published a draft local transport plan, which set out a vision to create a world-class transport network for Cambridgeshire and Peterborough to support sustainable growth and opportunity for all.

The plan for delivering bus improvements will build on the draft local transport plan and the strategic bus review published this year.

The survey can be accessed online at www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/FutureBus from November 4.