Issue - meetings

This report sets out how City of York Council will discharge the obligation placed on English local transport authorities to develop a Bus Service Improvement Plan by October 2021.

Resolved

                      i.         The Executive Member endorsed the approach set out in the report and agreed to refer the item to the Executive meeting on 20th May 2021 as a decision of key importance.

Reason:     To allow timely development of a Bus Service Improvement Plan for York and mitigate against potential loss of Covid bus service support grant from July 2021. It will then allow a Bus Service Improvement Plan to be delivered in time for a decision on its adoption to be made at an Executive meeting in September 2021 – prior to the DfT’s deadline of October 2021.

The Executive Member considered the two options within the Government Strategy to either franchise or enter an enhanced partnership with private bus service providers. It was noted that following discussions with nearby authorities the officers recommended negotiating an enhanced partnership. The work of the Quality Bus Partnership was noted including the electrification of some of York’s current buses. The Executive Member noted the Council should not rule out opting to franchise but agreed to endorse and refer the item to the Executive. 

Resolved

                      i.         The Executive Member endorsed the approach set out in the report and agreed to refer the item to the Executive meeting on 20th May 2021 as a decision of key importance.

Reason:     To allow timely development of a Bus Service Improvement Plan for York and mitigate against potential loss of Covid bus service support grant from July 2021. It will then allow a Bus Service Improvement Plan to be delivered in time for a decision on its adoption to be made at an Executive meeting in September 2021 – prior to the DfT’s deadline of October 2021.