Issue - meetings

To consider a report of the Head of Dorset Travel.

The committee received a report of the Head of Dorset Travel, which invited comments on the refreshed Bus Service Improvement Plan (BSIP) and feedback on the short-term delivery programme through to 2024/25.

Councillors considered the issues arising from the report and during discussion, points were noted in the following areas:

·       The position with bus services and connection into the public transport network in Maiden Newton, St Leonards and Alderholt were considered.  Discussion with ward members could be held after the meeting where relevant

·       Publicity of available services was a key theme of the BSIP and in addition, it was noted that parishes were good at publicising what was available in their villages

·       The plan set out the aspiration to improve access to bus services but it was noted that without government funding, action was limited to goals that could be achieved through existing funding streams and greater partnership working

·       There was regular engagement with key stakeholders and bus users

·       The impact of Covid-19 of bus usage was noted.

At this point in the meeting, it was proposed by B Goringe seconded by M Roberts and agreed by the committee, that the meeting continue beyond the 3-hour limit as set out in the Constitution.

Discussion continued with points raised in the following areas:

·       The Portfolio Holder noted frustration with the current position, thanked the committee for the questions asked and noted potential future actions to consider the issues in this area

·       The plan set out two programmes – one that could be achieved with additional funding and one through existing resources

·       Links to the concessionary bus pass scheme were considered

·       Engagement with other councils was undertaken

·       The involvement of town and parish councils was considered.

At the end of the discussion a summary of the points raised and further action required was provided:

·       Due to the funding position, the short term delivery programme was focused on providing better services using existing resources

·       Recognition of the aspiration to achieve funding in future for transformation work

·       Ongoing engagement was undertaken with stakeholders and bus users to provide updates and understand customer expectations and with rail operators around connections between rail and bus services

·       The report to highlight the potential implications for children and young adults living in rural communities

·       A request to explore opportunities for town and parish councils funding and providing bus services for their area

·       Recognition of the impact of Covid-19 on bus passenger numbers

·       Opportunities for councillors to consider the issues, potentially through a cross-party group.

The committee noted the points raised by the Portfolio Holder and both supported and requested that the Portfolio Holder made further representations to Government in relation to the Council’s unsuccessful bid for government bus transformation funding and the current position in respect of the delivery of the Bus Service Improvement Plan.