The Somerset Bus Partnership has applauded a significant £24.7 million funding boost allocated to the county’s bus services extending through to 2030. This multi-year settlement comes from the Department for Transport (DfT) as part of the local authority bus grant, which supports local bus services and infrastructure across England and Wales.
Replacing earlier bus service improvement plan (BSIP) grants introduced during the post-pandemic period, this funding will be split roughly evenly between capital and revenue expenditure. Capital funds will be directed towards major projects such as new buses, bus stations, and transport hubs, while revenue funds will support day-to-day operations, including fare subsidies.
Somerset Council will receive £24,741,113 between the fiscal years 2026/27 and 2029/30. Of this total, £13,148,886 is allocated for revenue spending up to April 2029, enabling measures like fare capping on routes such as the Taunton park and ride service. The remaining £11,592,227, designated for capital investment until April 2030, will support projects including the construction of new transport hubs in Taunton and rural Langport.
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This funding complements the government’s commitment to maintain the popular £3 single fare cap through March 2027, aimed at making bus travel more affordable.
Barrie Childs, representing the Somerset Bus Partnership, welcomed these developments at the council’s planning and transport policy meeting in Taunton. He noted the availability of £3 million for potential bus franchising initiatives, describing the funding as “very good news” and called on the council to ensure consistent support for bus services matches or exceeds current levels.
Somerset Council continues to financially support key but marginally commercial routes such as the 25 between Taunton and Wiveliscombe, and the 28 connecting Taunton with Minehead via Williton and Watchet. These subsidies have been kept under review, especially as the council grapples with a forecasted £73 million budget gap next financial year.
Councillor Mike Rigby, portfolio holder for economic development, planning, and assets, confirmed that previous proposed savings related to bus service support have now been removed following this government funding announcement. He emphasized that the ongoing additional revenue support allows the council to maintain its current level of investment and continue supporting essential services that may not be commercially sustainable but are socially necessary.
Mr. Rigby further stated that the council will keep collaborating with bus operators annually to balance commercial viability with the community’s transportation needs, ensuring socially important routes continue to serve Somerset residents.