Bus Services: Buckinghamshire
The question
To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, what steps her Department is taking with local authorities to ensure that rural communities in Buckingham and Bletchley constituency have access to adequate bus services at convenient times.
Answered by Department for Transport
The Government has introduced the Bus Services Act 2025 which puts the power over local bus services back in the hands of local leaders right across England. This is to ensure bus services reflect the needs of the communities that rely on them, improving the passenger experience and increasing bus usage nationwide.
The Government has confirmed over £3 billion from 2026/27 for long-term investment in bus services. This includes nearly £700 million per year through multi-year Local Authority Bus Grant allocations, giving councils certainty to plan ahead and improve services for local communities. Milton Keynes Council will receive £11.2 million under the LABG from 2026/27 to 2028/29.
Rural communities face particular challenges where services can be less frequent and more expensive to run. The Local Authority Bus Grant includes rurality in its funding formula, ensuring funding is directed to where it is most needed. This funding will help the council plan and support local bus services, including in rural areas where services can be more difficult to sustain.
Milton Keynes Council are also receiving additional government funding through the Franchising Support Fund to explore different franchising options to improve their bus services.
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