“The government’s target to reverse the long-term decline in bus use and achieve growth both nationally and in all regions is challenging. London is leading the way. If growth in all the regions is to be achieved, strong leadership from the Department of Transport will be essential, to build on its policies and encourage local transport authorities and operators to bring about the concerted action needed".
Audit Commission Chairman, James Strachan said:
“Buses are an important lifeline for many people and help reduce congestion in towns and cities. This has been recognised by targets to increase bus use. Our report analysed whether the best means have been adopted to achieve these targets. Success depends on many organisations working efficiently together. However what stands out is that where there is strong local leadership to increase the use of buses, as in London, the difference is real and the public notices it.”
Additional key findings:
Additional key recommendations:
As owner of the national target, the Department of Transport should:
At the same time, local transport authorities should:
General Information
NAO press enquiries: Barry Lester, Tel: 020 7798 7937
Mobile: 07748 181692Audit Commission press enquiries: Amelia Dixon, Tel: 020 7166 2205
Sir John Bourn, the Comptroller and Auditor General and head of the National Audit Office
Mobile: 07716 098231
Downloads
- 0506677es.pdf (.pdf — 328 KB)
- 0506677.pdf (.pdf — 1,012 KB)
Publication details
- ISBN: 102933421 [Buy a hard copy of this report]
- HC: 677 2005-2006
