Decision details

Purpose of report: The report addresses three campaign issues raised by Cllr Alexander. A freeze in First York bus fares; an end to First York bus cuts; a review of all bus services for villages in outer York to have sufficient access to bus routes. Comment is made on the first two issues and proposals will be made for how the bus services in York might be amended. The changes would be with effect from September 2011.

Members are asked to: Note the observations of officers concerning the first two issues raised by Cllr Alexander's petition. Consider possible amendments to bus services in the Outer York constituency.

RESOLVED:             That the Executive Member notes the contents of the report and agrees to:

i)                    Support the work currently being undertaken to encourage and sustain commercial bus services with realistic fares on York’s bus network.

ii)                  Request a review of the network of subsidised bus services provided across York prior to the re-tendering of services in Autumn 2011.

iii)                Request officers to include on a future ResOp survey questions (backed up by an “on line” Council web site poll) aimed at discovering residents views on acceptable bus service standards taking into account subsidy levels, comfort, speed, reliability, accessibility and fare cost issues.

REASON:                  That the vast majority of contracts for York’s tendered bus network expire at the end of August 2011. It is within the context of this tendering round that any changes to the existing bus network would best be considered for the delivery of a sustainable, attractive bus network to be achieved.