(23 Dec 2023, 3:26 pm)DeltaMan wrote Some would say the difference is that Stagecoach aren't using public money to restore something that was previously a commercial service. It is a genuine improvement. 

Whereas in the examples given, it *APPEARS* that Arriva and GNE are wanting to use public money to pay for services which were clearly commercial before they were reduced for staffing reasons.  

It might be allowed by the letter of BSIP. But I don't think it's within the spirit of it, personally.

I’d say the restoration of the Arriva X16 and Go North East X20 services are genuine improvements based on the “current” network.

Local Authorities have strict subsidy control rules and governance policies, so can’t give out the money willy-nilly. They are ultimately responsible for whether a scheme goes ahead or not, and work in partnership with operators to deliver these.

At the same time, Local Authorities are also introducing new services - the 777 is a Northumberland County Council tender (won by Arriva), and Nexus have a similar tender live at the moment (not yet awarded to any operator).

Both combined - with more affordable fares - is a wise use of the BSIP funding.


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