Over £24m funding boost for Hampshire bus services

This funding, part of the Labour Government’s nationwide initiative to rejuvenate the bus transport sector, is set to benefit Basingstoke and the surrounding county as part of a wider £3 billion investment across England.

The funding will allow local authorities to make fares cheaper, launch new routes, increase the number of zero-emission buses, and enhance the safety of bus stops.

Labour MP for Basingstoke said: "I am delighted that the Transport Secretary has confirmed £24,812,298 of new bus funding for Hampshire County Council that will have a direct impact on Basingstoke residents.

"After a decade of decline, people across Basingstoke are tired of unreliable, infrequent bus services holding them back from getting to work, hospital appointments and social plans.

Luke Murphy with Basingstoke buses! (Image: The Office of Luke Murphy)

"This new Government has a plan to deliver better buses across the country, and this funding boost is another crucial stop on that journey."

The fund is part of the Government's scheme to reform England's bus system, the largest in the past four decades, entrusting more control to the communities that utilise the services.

Under this new mandate, local authorities now have the power to run local services and safeguard socially essential routes, following the Bus Services Act, which became law in October.

Almost £700 million of this fund will be at local authorities' disposal each year until 2028/29, to be utilised at their discretion.

This approach ensures that services are directed towards people, shifting away from profit-centric models.

Simon Lightwood, Minister for Roads and Buses said: "For too long, passengers have been let down by unreliable services, sub-standard bus stations, and over a decade of routes being cut.

"This £3 billion boost will change this, providing passengers with lower fares, more frequent and reliable services, and safer journeys – helping both ease the cost of living and making it easier for people to get to work, hospital appointments, and social plans, boosting the economy."