Women Drive Change in UK Bus Industry Transport Minister celebrates female achievements amid ambitious overhaul of national bus services
In a bustling Manchester conference hall, the hum of excitement was palpable as Local Transport Minister Simon Lightwood took center stage to celebrate the often-overlooked heroines of Britain’s bus industry.
The Women in Bus and Coach awards event on October 8, 2024, shone a spotlight on the achievements of women in a traditionally male-dominated sector, all while the government gears up for what it calls “the biggest bus overhaul in a generation.”
Empowering Women in Transit
Lightwood’s attendance at the event underscored the government’s commitment to diversity in the transport sector. He engaged with industry professionals, discussing the Women in Bus and Coach organization’s key aims:
- Promoting solidarity across the profession
- Highlighting female role models in engineering, driving, and management
- Challenging industry policies that fail to meet women’s needs
“I was delighted to celebrate the incredible achievements of women in the bus and coach industry up and down the country,”
Lightwood remarked, emphasizing the critical role these professionals will play in the upcoming transport revolution.
The Bus Revolution Gathers Steam
The awards ceremony coincided with the closing of a government consultation on updating guidance to reduce barriers to bus franchising. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to revitalize the UK’s bus services by:
- Handing power back to local councils
- Growing passenger numbers
- Delivering better services nationwide
Aspect |
Current System |
Proposed Changes |
|---|---|---|
| Control | Private operators | Local councils |
| Service Quality | Varies by area | Standardized improvement |
| Fares | Inconsistent | Potential for unified pricing |
Manchester’s Bee Network: A Model for Success
Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham, who attended the event, showcased the region’s Bee Network as a prime example of successful bus service transformation.
Burnham stated,
“In Greater Manchester, we’re bringing buses back into local control, with cheaper fares, better buses, and, crucially, more reliable services all attracting more people onboard.”
The Bee Network has set a new standard for urban bus services by:
- Introducing capped fares
- Integrating buses into a citywide transport network
- Unifying services under a singular, recognizable identity
Challenges and Opportunities
While the government’s plans have been met with enthusiasm, some industry insiders express concerns about the practicalities of implementation. Questions remain about funding, infrastructure readiness, and the potential impact on smaller operators.
Louise Cheeseman, Chair and Founder of Women in Bus and Coach, welcomed the government’s initiatives but emphasized the need for inclusivity:
“We look forward to working together to ensure these changes empower a more inclusive, accessible, and innovative future for all.”
The Future
As the bus revolution gains momentum, the government aims to replicate Manchester’s success nationwide. The outcome of the recent consultation on franchising guidance is expected to be announced soon, along with next steps for implementing the Bill.
For more information on the UK’s bus service overhaul and opportunities in the transport sector, visit the Department for Transport’s official website.
Sources: THX News, Department for Transport & Simon Lightwood MP.
