Government Confirms £20 Million for Cornwall’s Bus Services

Cornwall is set to receive £20 million from the Labour Government to improve bus services, with local MPs saying the funding could mean faster, cheaper and more reliable journeys across the county.

Major funding confirmed

The Government has announced £3 billion for bus improvements across England, describing it as the biggest reform to the system in 40 years. Cornwall’s share is part of a plan to reverse what Labour says has been 14 years of decline under the previous Government.

The funding can be used to lower fares, add new routes, bring in zero emission buses or improve safety at bus stops. It follows the Bus Services Act becoming law in October, which gives local authorities the power to run local services and protects socially necessary routes. Under these plans, local leaders, rather than Whitehall, will decide how services should operate.

Local MPs welcome the boost

Anna Gelderd, Member of Parliament for South East Cornwall, said she had heard from residents about the state of local bus services since being elected.

“It is fantastic that Cornwall is receiving £20 million to fix existing problems and improve bus services. I said that I’d deliver better buses, and I am glad that the Government is backing this by providing the necessary funds.”

Jayne Kirkham, Member of Parliament for Truro and Falmouth, said the announcement had come at a crucial time.

“This is fantastic news for Cornwall and couldn’t have come at a better time. Buses are a lifeline here, and when routes are cut or services become unreliable, it creates real barriers.

“We’ve faced serious challenges in Truro and Falmouth, with vital routes being dropped and operators like First withdrawing from Cornwall.

“This 3 year deal will allow us to plan for the future and help Cornwall Council, in partnership with Go Cornwall, by providing the funding to improve services and protect the routes we depend on.

“Buses must never be a barrier. If we want to raise aspirations in Cornwall, we have to get transport right, and I’m proud that this Labour Government is delivering the investment we need.”

Noah Law, Member of Parliament for St Austell and Newquay, said the funding arrived at a time when protecting socially necessary routes was badly needed.

Perran Moon, Member of Parliament for Camborne, Redruth and Hayle, said improving transport was essential for Cornwall’s communities and economy.

‘‘Without a decent bus service across Cornwall, we cannot unlock economic potential, as well as keep the young and old connected to friends and family. The Labour Government has recognised how important our buses are in remote coastal areas like Cornwall. In Camborne, Redruth & Hayle, we’ve seen bus services declining, so this extra funding is to be welcomed. But we do need a lot more and I will be working with colleagues to get it.’’

National picture

Minister for Roads and Buses Simon Lightwood said passengers had faced unreliable services and cuts to routes for too long.

“This £3 billion boost will change this, providing passengers with lower fares, more frequent and reliable services and safer journeys helping both ease the cost of living and making it easier for people to get to work, hospital appointments and social plans, boosting the economy.”

Almost £700 million will be allocated to local authorities every year up to 2028/29, with councils able to decide how best to use the money.