The government has reaffirmed its support for the coach
sector today (6 May 2025), as Local Transport Minister
visited Star Coaches in
Batley ahead of National Coach Week.
In partnership with the Road Haulage Association, National Coach
Week (12 to 18 May 2025) celebrates the essential role of coaches
in everyday life, from transporting over half a million students
to school each day, to providing vital backup when trains or
planes are disrupted.
The minister met with staff and Road Haulage Association leaders
to discuss the industry's contribution to local communities, and
how the government can work with operators to improve
accessibility, make services greener and drive economic
growth as part of the Plan for Change.
Local Transport Minister, , said:
It was a pleasure to visit Star Coaches in Batley today, ahead of
National Coach Week.
From getting over half a million students to school each day, to
supporting 42,000 jobs for drivers and other staff, the
coach sector plays a vital role in our economy, and keeps
communities connected.
That's why we're working hand-in-hand with the industry to
unlock its full potential – which will ultimately boost local
economies, and open up access to greater job opportunities across
the country to drive growth as part of our Plan
for Change.
During the visit, the minister discussed how Star Coaches
supports the region – from transporting children on school trips,
to helping older residents stay connected with their communities.
The Batley based operator was founded in 1982 and operates a
fleet of 16 to 70-seater coaches to serve local passengers across
West Yorkshire.
Tomorrow, the minister will meet with industry leaders to share
insights from the visit and discuss how the government can
strengthen the sector for the future.
As part of efforts to tackle driver shortages and expand
opportunities for young people, the government is currently
reviewing consultation feedback on licence rules for
18-to-20-year-olds.
The government is also working with the sector to continually
improve accessibility, which includes running an innovation
competition with Innovate UK to develop transferrable
audio-visual equipment for coaches, which will award projects up
to £170,000.
Richard , RHA Managing Director,
said:
National Coach Week is a fantastic opportunity to shine a
spotlight on the vital role the coach industry plays in our
society.
Coaches provide essential transport links, connect communities,
and support our tourism sector. They are also a key part of the
solution to reducing congestion and improving air quality.
We urge everyone to join us in celebrating this important
industry and recognise the hard work and dedication of the people
who make it all possible.
