Decision details

To consider the 2025/26 Bus Grant Delivery Plan that includes funding apportionment and the final Bus Service Improvement Plan (BSIP) 2 that will be submitted to the Department for Transport.

60.1     The Lead Member considered a report by the Director of Communities, Economy and Transport.

DECISIONS

60.2     The Lead Member RESOLVED to:

(1) Approve the Bus Service Improvement Plan 2 at Appendix 1 of the report;

(2) Approve the Bus Service Improvement Plan 2025/26 Delivery Plan at Appendix 2 of the report;

(3) Note that the Director is in discussion with the Department for Transport about reallocating some of the Bus Service Improvement Plan (BSIP) funding to the Exceat Bridge project as outlined in paragraph 1.6 of the report; and

(4) Delegate authority to the Director of Communities, Economy and Transport to implement and make changes to the Bus Service Improvement Plan 2025/26 Delivery Plan as necessary.

REASONS

60.3     East Sussex County Council’s mission as a local transport authority is to ensure that East Sussex residents and visitors enjoy the highest possible quality bus services that provide a frequent and comprehensive choice, reduce congestion, and make a positive contribution to better air quality and decarbonisation. This mission is supported by the authority’s bus operators who will play a key role in its delivery.

60.4     The original East Sussex BSIP submitted in October 2021 is a highly ambitious plan that sought to stimulate and drive significant improvements to bus services across the local authority area and the wider region. The BSIP2 details what has been delivered to date, what will be delivered within the current BSIP1 funding period and ambitions beyond. The BSIP2 continues to illustrate East Sussex County Council’s ambition to deliver the highest possible quality bus services that meet the needs of East Sussex residents and visitors.