Cumberland Councillor Denise Rollo, Executive Member for Sustainable, Resilient and Connected Places:
The Bus Service Improvement Plan (BSIP) demonstrates our commitment to enhancing Cumberland's bus network. Recognising that buses are the backbone of passenger transport in our region, the council, in partnership with bus operators and key stakeholders, aims to build on this strong foundation, to improve and expand services. Our goal is to make bus travel more appealing for both residents and visitors. thereby increasing accessibility for a wider range of journeys.
The BSIP outlines a comprehensive range of proposed enhancements, including improvements to services, ticketing, infrastructure, vehicles, and information systems. These changes aim to modernise the bus network, delivering numerous benefits such as reduced carbon emissions, improved access to education, employment, and essential services, decreased highway congestion, and enhanced public health. The plan is aligned with the Cumbria Transport Infrastructure Plan (CTIP) 2022-2037 (PDF 12MB), which envisions a transport system that meets the needs of residents, businesses, and visitors while respecting our region's unique environment.
Cumberland's diverse geography presents challenges for frequent bus services, especially in rural areas. The BSIP acknowledges these obstacles and emphasises the need for investment to make services more viable over time. An improved network will benefit key industries such as agriculture, tourism, and manufacturing while supporting areas facing economic deprivation and fuel poverty.
Buses are crucial for connecting people to employment opportunities, supporting sustainable travel, and addressing socio-economic challenges. With a rich landscape that includes two World Heritage sites and an area of outstanding natural beauty, Cumberland attracts millions of visitors annually. Enhancing bus services will support both tourism and local communities, reinforcing our commitment to economic growth and environmental stewardship.
We are committed to listening to residents to shape a bus network that is reliable, efficient, and sustainable.
Together, we are driving forward our commitment to a greener, more connected, and vibrant Cumberland.