CUMBERLAND will get additional funding of more than £5 million to improve local bus services, it has been revealed.

Councillor Denise Rollo (Harrington, Labour), the sustainable, resilient and connected places portfolio holder, was speaking during Tuesday’s (November 26) meeting of Cumberland Council’s executive committee at Allerdale House in Workington.

She said that the recent £5.4million funding announcement by the secretary of state for transport on the plans for better buses would continue to improve services and protect routes with additional funds to enhance bus stop safety and passenger safety.

Cllr Rollo added: “Buses are crucial to Cumberland’s economy and society, providing 10.8 million passenger journeys annually across Cumbria.

“They connect people to jobs, services, and opportunities, serving as a lifeline for all ages in both urban and rural areas and whether it’s a visit to the shops, a doctor’s appointment, or a job interview, buses support our everyday needs.

“Deregulation has led to unreliable services, rising fares and reduced routes, particularly affecting the poorest who rely on buses the most.”

She said they had been working in partnership with bus operators to ensure public transport across Cumberland is “reliable, efficient and meets the needs of all our residents”.

Cllr Rollo said the funding was based on local need, population, bus travel distances, deprivation levels, and the funding would need to be aligned to those principles.

She added: “The Government is also set to introduce a buses bill, which is the biggest reform in 40 years, and will allow councils to adopt franchising models.

“This will give local councils control over routes, fares, and timetables to better meet passenger needs.

“We have expressed an interest and we will continue to have talks with Stagecoach – our main bus operator.

“Investing in buses is an investment in our people, our communities, and the future growth of Cumberland and improved bus services are just around the corner.”