Leader's blog - 2 September 2024
“Bus services are essential for our communities, for people to get to school, work, appointments and shopping. Buses are a critical part of the solution for tackling climate change to reduce emissions as well as congestion, and buses are also crucial to provide transport for all, including for people who are disabled, on low incomes, or who can’t drive because of their age or health.
Along with other local leaders in Gloucestershire, last year I signed a commitment for our councils to work together to achieve our climate targets for transport, which is the source of one third of the county’s carbon emissions. This will mean doubling the use of public transport, tripling walking and cycling trips and supporting the move to electric vehicles.
Unfortunately, the limited powers and funding available to local authorities mean we can’t move as fast as we need to. The new on-demand Robin bus service is welcome, but it’s extremely disappointing that the scheduled 84/85 service, connecting Wotton-under-Edge to Yate, has stopped for good this week despite a compelling local campaign to save it. I sincerely hope that the new Government will listen to local communities like ours and give us the powers and resources we need to put more buses on the road!
Councils are investing where we can in capital projects, and there are plans to update the bus hub at Merrywalks in Stroud, funded by the county, district and town councils. This will improve accessibility, service information and waiting spaces. You can have your say on the proposals until 9 September: https://haveyoursaygloucestershire.uk.engagementhq.com/stroud-merrywalks-transport-hub
To make it easier for people to cycle, Stroud District Council is installing free bike stands for businesses and organisations, in partnership with LifeCycle UK. So far, we’ve put in 100 stands, with more to come. To find out more information and apply please see www.stroud.gov.uk/freebikestands “
Cllr Catherine Braun, Leader of Stroud District Council