Jersey's bus service a 'remarkable success story', says UK Government minister
Jersey's bus service is the "gold standard" for transport links in smaller towns and rural areas, according to a UK Government minister.
Simon Lightwood is the British Local Transport Minister and says Jersey is a "remarkable success story" that is now being put forward by the UK Government as a shining example in its bid to give local authorities there more control over how buses are run.
Mr Lightwood says his Government will bring the Bus Services Bill to the House of Commons "very soon" for debate.
The Minister adds he was impressed by a 47% increase in bus passengers across Jersey since LibertyBus took over the service in 2013.
That upward trend defies the dropping coverage of buses in the UK, where bus mileage fell by a quarter between 2005 and 2024 outside London.
Mr Lightwood explains: "I very much see Jersey as the gold standard of franchising when it comes to more rural and smaller towns, the same way as I see Manchester as the gold standard for urban areas, so very much a beacon."
Speaking about what lessons can be taken away from his trip to Jersey, the Minister adds: "I've learnt how important it is that bus companies are embedded in the community, that they truly reflect the needs of the community in which they serve.
"That's why it's so important we [the UK Government] take back control, that local communities are able to shape those bus services that truly get them to where they want to be."
Mr Lightwood also praised the way local leaders in Jersey have been able to shape the way the service is operated.
Mr Lightwood says: "We've got a long way to go in many areas of the UK to achieve what has been a fantastic result here in Jersey.
"That 47% increase in passengers numbers is remarkable, especially given the Covid pandemic.
"We always want to continue to improve, always listening, and that's what it's all about. Listening to local communities to offer the services they deserve."
Since taking over from MyBus 12 years ago, LibertyBus introduced a flat rate of £2 for all single journeys around the island in 2016, a sum which has gradually risen.
It currently costs £2.55 for an adult single ticket if paying by contactless card, or £3 by cash.
Some authorities in the UK operate a similar model with single bus fares in London, Greater Manchester, West Yorkshire, Northumberland, Tyne and Wear and County Durham all currently capped.
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