House of Commons · Ministers' Questions

Access to Bus Services: Cumbria

Thursday 28 January 2021 · 2 questions

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Answered 0 Partly answered 2 Not answered 0

Key points

Ministerial Department is developing a national bus strategy for England.
Cumbria is participating in phase 2 of the rural mobility fund.
Council funds can support rural bus routes to improve community sustainability.

Topics (select to filter)

Questions & Answers

Q1 Neil Hudson Con Epping Forest

Transport Agriculture & Rural Affairs

Context

The MP notes the importance of public transport connectivity for rural communities, especially highlighted during the pandemic. In 2014, Cumbria County Council stopped using central government funds to subsidise commercial bus services, resulting in reduced provision.

Question

What steps his Department is taking to improve access to bus services in rural areas in Cumbria?

Answer from Robert Courts

We are developing a national bus strategy for England. Cumbria is participating in phase 2 of the rural mobility fund.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Specific steps and funding details not provided

How: Phase 2 Of The Rural Mobility Fund

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Q2 Neil Hudson Con Epping Forest

Transport Local Government Environment

Context

Bus services provide a critical lifeline for people in rural communities such as Penrith and The Border, with the importance highlighted during the pandemic. In 2014, Cumbria County Council opted to stop using central government funds to subsidise commercial bus services, leading to reduced provision.

Question

Does my hon. Friend agree that now is the time for the council to revisit its decision and use available funds to support rural bus routes to allow people to go about their lives, reconnect and improve their health and welfare?

Answer from Robert Courts

We recognise the importance of public transport for the sustainability and independence of communities, particularly in rural areas like Cumbria. We are providing a £20 million rural mobility fund to support demand-responsive services in rural and suburban areas. Thanks to my hon. Friend's support, Cumbria County Council was successful in phase 1 and has been invited to participate in phase 2.