In 2021, the former Cumbria County Council delivered the first "Bus Service Improvement Plan" (BSIP) for Cumbria, as required by the Department for Transport's (DfT) "Buses Back Better" strategy. This national plan aimed to improve bus services by reforming how they are planned, delivered and funded.
The Government initially allocated £3 billion for improvements, but much of this was redirected to maintain services during and after the COVID pandemic, reducing BSIP funding to £1.2 billion. Cumbria’s bid was unsuccessful, with funding awarded mainly to areas with established projects or major infrastructure schemes.
In 2022, Cumbria County Council approved the Cumbria Transport Plan (CTIP). It sets out the transport vision and priorities for the county over the next 15 years, with the aim that in 2037 Cumbria will be one of the best-connected rural geographies in the UK. Clean growth and decarbonised transport networks will be integral to a growing, inclusive economy where our communities will be able to access opportunities, services, education and leisure facilities. Cumbria will be a destination of choice; where people choose to live, visit and work.
The development and delivery of accessible, sustainable and connected transport networks is necessary to support communities and economic growth. This needs all modes of transport to be effectively integrated with each other and with land uses, in a manner that respects our world class environment.
Congestion and parking issues in the Lake District impact local travel and tourism. While active travel solutions will help, an extensive, cost effective, frequent network of bus services is key to reducing car dependency.
As Cumberland's economy recovers and grows, improved public transport will be vital for tackling climate change, reducing congestion, and making the area an attractive place to live, work, and visit.