24th May 2016 06:54
LONDON (Alliance News) - Go-Ahead Group PLC on Tuesday issued a response to the draft Bus Services Bill in the UK, saying franchise decision-making must be kept transparent.
The transport operator said it supported the emphasis the bill has placed on the "partnership model", arguing working in partnership on local bus services can deliver better outcomes for both bus passengers and taxpayers.
However, Go-Ahead said it remains to be convinced that the process by which new franchising powers can be granted to combined authorities will deliver better service for customers than the current system of competition between operators and working with local transport authorities.
The draft bill includes new provisions which will make re-regulation of services through franchising arrangements easier. This will allow local authorities to introduce bus franchise schemes with more ease than under the current system and will let authorities end commercial bus operations and exclude operators which do not win contracts.
"Measures brought forward in the Bus Services Bill must ensure that the franchise decision-making process is transparent and that any franchise proposals will deliver on customer service, value for money and affordability criteria," Go-Ahead said.
By Sam Unsted; [email protected]; @SamUAtAlliance
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