The UK government remains committed to enhancing local transport networks and making them more inclusive, ensuring that vulnerable individuals can travel safely and with confidence.
In line with this commitment, Local Transport Minister Simon Lightwood visited West London today (17 October 2024) to mark Community Transport Week. The visit highlights the government's pledge to return bus service powers to local authorities to better support the sector.
Minister Lightwood met with elderly and vulnerable passengers who benefit from on-demand bus and taxi services during his visit to Westway Community Transport in Westbourne Park. These services provide crucial support for those unable to use conventional public transport or drive, offering them access to essential activities like hospital appointments, grocery shopping, and social engagements with family and friends.
To bolster such services, the government allocates up to £3.8 million annually to community transport operators. With ongoing plans to devolve control of bus services to local authorities, the government is exploring ways to incorporate the community transport sector into these efforts. This initiative aims to grow passenger numbers and expand services through collaboration between local authorities and community transport providers, marking the most significant transformation of bus services in decades.
Local Transport Minister, Simon Lightwood, said: “Community transport services are a lifeline for so many people, which is why I was delighted to visit Westway today to celebrate the incredible work of operators up and down the country. We’re committed to improving our local networks, to make them more inclusive and enable vulnerable people to travel safely, confidently and with dignity. Community transport plays a vital role in providing these services, so we are working to ensure they are part of the solution”.
Westway Community Transport CEO, Kathleen Lyons, said: “We were delighted to welcome Simon Lightwood to Westway Community Transport. It’s never been more important to showcase the work of community transport. We’re an essential part of the local transport mix – particularly for those who find public transport difficult to use – and a key component in any plan to tackle loneliness and social isolation”.
Community Transport Association (CTA) CEO, Victoria Armstrong, said:
“CTA are delighted that the Local Transport Minister recognises the importance of CTWeek24 by visiting one of our members. Community transport is vital to so many people across the UK and this week we celebrate the range of community solutions to transport barriers across the country. I am pleased that the minister was able to celebrate with us and to support what community transport is all about”.