SEStran Regional Bus Strategy
South East Scotland Transport Partnership (SEStran) has commissioned SYSTRA and Stantec to support in the preparation of a SEStran Regional Bus Strategy (SRBS). The production of this Strategy is a key action from the Regional Transport Strategy (RTS).
Bus is the most frequently and widely used form of public transport in the South East of Scotland. Almost half (47%) of residents of the region used a bus service at least once a month in 2019, and patronage is building back since the coronavirus pandemic. Bus also plays a role in tackling significant problems like climate change, inequality and social isolation. Problems, such as the lack of bus services or a sudden change in bus provision, have significant impacts on people’s lives.
The SRBS will specify the role of bus in delivering the RTS, including the spatial context of the bus network and the attributes and components of the bus network for the region. The SRBS will also set out the plans and actions to deliver that network. This includes consideration of the optimal approach to operating and funding the network, taking into account the powers available through the Transport (Scotland) Act 2019, and the potential role of municipally owned bus operations in the region.
At present, the following four work packages have been commissioned by SEStran:
- The Case for Change Report (Work Package 1) will create an evidence base of bus-related issues and opportunities in the region, drawing upon work already carried out for our RTS, as well as further analysis and engagement with local authorities and bus operators.
- Options Appraisal (Work Package 2) will develop potential options for how the bus network could be improved, including how it is operated and funded. These options will then be considered for their ability to achieve key policy and transport planning objectives, along with criteria for appraisal set out within Scottish Transport Appraisal Guidance (STAG).
- Strategy Development (Work Package 3) will set out a vision for the future operation of bus services across the SEStran region and provide a pathway for progressing and delivering these.
Consultation on the Draft Regional Bus Strategy (Work Package 4) will be carried out with members of public and other key stakeholders. A Final Regional Bus Strategy and Delivery Plan will be prepared, drawing upon the findings of the consultation.
If the SRBS is approved following this a Strategic Business Case (SBC) for the Regional Bus Strategy will then be developed and SEStran will look at taking forward the actions from the SBC. The SRBC proposed timeline:
If you would like to contribute to the development of the Regional Bus Strategy, please contact Rachael.murphy@sestran.gov.uk
Relevant documents will be added to this page periodically.