Bus Services: West Dorset

The Government recognises that every community has distinct public transport needs. It wants to empower local leaders to work with operators to design networks that reflect local circumstances. This includes considering a range of service types, such as limited-stop bus services, community transport and demand responsive services, alongside regular stopping services, to help deliver comprehensive coverage.

The Bus Services Act 2025 puts the power over local bus services back into the hands of local leaders, including in rural areas. We have confirmed over £3 billion from 2026/27 to 2028/29 to support and improve bus services in England outside London. Dorset Council has been allocated £12 million of this funding under the Local Authority Bus Grant (LABG). The formula used to calculate LABG allocations for 2026/27 onwards includes consideration of the rurality of local areas for the first time, in addition to population size, levels of deprivation, and the extent of existing bus services. LABG funding can be used can be used in whichever way local authorities wish to deliver better services for passengers, including expanding rural services and or supporting some community transport services.

Community transport, often run by charities and community groups on a not-for-profit basis, plays a vital role in connecting people to education, employment and essential services, particularly in rural areas. The Department for Transport makes up to £3.8 million available each year to eligible community transport operators through the Bus Service Operators Grant, providing discretionary support towards operating costs. A 60% uplift has been applied to claims until 31 March 2027 to reflect increasing costs, meaning operators receive £1.60 for every £1 claimed.