Bus services are on the route to a big shake-up

LANCASHIRE’S bus services are in line for their most radical overhaul in 35 years, with a series of sweeping improvements planned for passengers.

It is part of an Englandwide government initiative designed to make buses the default choice for short-distance journeys.

Transport authorities such as Lancashire County Council will be obliged to draw up improvement plans that set targets for journey times and increased reliability - including by focusing on priority measures, like bus lanes, to help speed up trips.

Councils will also encourage more frequent services - particularly during evenings and weekends.

In a big boost to their power over buses, local authorities will be able to have a say over fares and ticketing - and promote better connections between buses and other modes of travel to create a more integrated transport system. Local authorities will also be charged with addressing gaps in the bus network across their patch.

Local authorities have been told that they must have their plans completed by the end of October - and will then have until next March to develop the strategies needed to get their ambitions on the road.

Councils were given two options for how to improve bus services in their area - with Lancashire opting for a so-called “enhanced partnership” model. Cabinet members endorsed a decision to reject the chance to create a franchising system in the county - currently being pursued by Greater Manchester.