The Scottish Government is providing additional expenditure of
up to £29 million to help bus operators maintain services
during the coronavirus pandemic.
The extra funding extends the support for bus services already
provided of up to £162.3 since June.
Cabinet Secretary for Transport, Infrastructure and
Connectivity said:
"We know how vital bus services are in keeping Scotland moving
during the challenges faced by the Covid-19 pandemic - ensuring
people can travel to work, access health services, or visit
their loved ones.
“This additional funding of up to £29 million on top of the
£162.3 million already committed since June will enable bus
operators to maintain bus services. The funding fills the gap
between the additional costs of running services due to
COVID-19 and severely reduced ticket income due to reduced
demand from fare-paying passengers and the impact of physical
distancing measures.
"While we remain committed to supporting our transport network
and doing all we can to help the bus industry deliver services,
we also ask the public to follow the latest travel guidance and
walk, wheel or cycle wherever they can.
“With the public’s help we can provide safe public transport
while protecting public health.”
, Director of Confederation of Passenger Transport UK
(Scotland) added:
"We welcome the Scottish Government's continued recognition of
the important role the bus network plays in facilitating
sustainable travel for essential journeys and in enabling
social inclusion.
"CPT and our operator members will continue working with
passengers, businesses and local authorities to provide a safe,
flexible bus network through this extended period of support."
