There is currently an ongoing discussion about the future of the bus services in the South Yorkshire area. Public consultation is taking place and you can have your say at the following page at the South Yorkshire Combined Mayoral Authority website:
https://www.southyorkshire-ca.gov.uk/bus-reform
There is also a questionnaire on the site which you fill in and express your opinions.
The information below is taken from that page — and content contained therein does not necessarily reflect the opinions of the Penistone Town Council or its members and staff. However we do think it may be of interest to local residents.
“SYMCA bus franchising consultation
“The public consultation is now open
“South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA) is consulting on taking back control of our buses through bus franchising.
“Buses are the most used mode of public transport in South Yorkshire, and SYMCA now has the power to reform bus services to make sure they work for the public.
“Since 1986, bus services in the region have been deregulated. This means that private bus operators are responsible for setting routes, timetables, service standards, fares and tickets and run services to make a profit.
“Bus franchising is where a transport authority such as SYMCA takes control of how buses are run; owning the depots and the bus fleet. If, following the consultation, the Mayor decides to proceed with bus franchising buses will be taken back under public control.
“This will give SYMCA powers to decide:
- what routes buses take
- what times they run
- the quality of the service
- how many ticket options are available
- what the fares will cost
- how to improve the reliability of the bus network
- how buses, trams and trains can connect with each other.
- As a public body, SYMCA can reinvest any profit back into improving the system for the public.
“For more information please follow the link below:
