Labour is today announcing new funding of £1.3bn per year to reverse cuts made to 3,000 bus routes by the Tories since 2010 and to fund the expansion of new bus services.

Reinstating bus services across the country will provide a lifeline to many people, particularly the elderly, the vulnerable and people living in rural areas who have been totally cut off as a result of their bus services disappearing.

Increasing bus use will also combat air pollution and climate change impacts, address inequalities and support local economies.

This policy complements Labour’s plans to put communities in control of local services by regulating and bringing into public ownership local services, and introducing free bus fares for young people.

Over 3,000 bus routes have been cut or withdrawn since 2010.

Jeremy Corbyn MP, Leader of the Labour Party, and Andy McDonald MP, Shadow Transport Secretary, will announce the new funding on a visit today to Nottingham where the Labour council still runs their own buses including a fleet of eco buses.

Jeremy Corbyn MP, Leader of the Labour Party, said:

“Bus services have been devastated by nine years of austerity. Thousands of routes have been axed, fares have soared and passenger numbers are in freefall.

“Local services are a lifeline for many, particularly the elderly and those in rural areas. Cuts have had disastrous consequences for our towns and city centres and for air pollution and the environment.

“Bus networks are essential for towns and cities and for tackling rural poverty and isolation, which is why Labour is committed to creating thriving bus networks under public ownership.”

Andy McDonald MP, Labour’s Shadow Transport Secretary, said:

“The Tories have neglected buses, along with the people and communities who rely on them.

“Slashing bus funding damages our communities by cutting people off from work and leisure and worsening congestion and air pollution.

“Labour is announcing an end to austerity for buses and the funding needed to transform local services to allow our towns and cities to thrive.”