Singing the praises of council control of bus service networks

Following bus deregulation in 1986, local authorities had to pick up the scraps left by the commercial operators. However experience from two areas of Wales demonstrates that when local authorities have control over entire networks, they can adopt radical approaches to generate substantial ridership increases. The author looks at the development and progress of the networks, Snowdon Sherpa and Gower Explorer, reflecting on the success of the local authorities' planning. Without having to work round commercial routes, times and fares, they were able to devise networks that reduced car traffic in residential and tourist areas; that provided attractive public transport for residents and that fulfilled environmental obligations. Following negotiations between affected parties, four key bus routes became a network of connecting services. They were competitively priced, appropriately scheduled and the services were distinctively branded and well marketed. The author looks at the implications of the Local Transport Bill, flagging up the possible consequences of different scenarios of bus service provision in rural areas. An insert provides a short reflection on current rail connections in some rural areas and looks at possible methods of connecting more successfully with train passengers.