Bus funding changes could risk rural services in Cumbria

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 13 Nov, 17:32 · Archive

Westmorland and Furness Council changed how it reimburses bus operators for concessionary fares, potentially reducing funding for services.

Westmorland and Furness Council approved changes to how it reimburses bus operators for concessionary fares at a cabinet meeting on 10 November. The council switched from reimbursing 58 per cent of total fares to a new 'Basket of Fares' methodology that uses evidence of fares passengers actually buy, including capped fares, single fares, return tickets and day tickets.

The change reflects the impact of the national bus fare cap, which has altered travel patterns with many passengers now using capped fares that differ 'substantially' from published fares. Councillor Adrian Waite, cabinet member for environmental services and transport, said the changes would ensure reimbursement arrangements 'remain fair, robust and aligned with current travel patterns' while meeting statutory obligations and achieving value for money.

The council has a statutory duty to reimburse operators so they are 'no better and no worse off' by participating in the scheme, in line with Government principle. The new policy follows Department for Transport guidance. However, the council estimates the change will reduce its concessionary travel budget, potentially meaning less funding for bus operators. The council warned that 'some operators, particularly smaller rural operators with a higher proportion of concessionary passengers, may experience reduced reimbursement income'.

Bus funding changes could risk rural services in Cumbria — Image: NW Evening Mail

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How it is being reported

‘Jewel in our crown’ bus services could be at risk with funding changes‘Jewel in our crown’ bus services could be at risk after Westmorland and Furness Council changed how operators are reimbursed for concessionary fares.NW Evening Mail · 13 Nov, 17:10
‘Jewel in our crown’ bus services could be at risk with funding changes‘Jewel in our crown’ bus services could be at risk after Westmorland and Furness Council changed how operators are reimbursed for concessionary fares.Westmorland Gazette · 13 Nov, 17:10

In this story: Westmorland and Furness Council · Department for Transport · Kendal

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