The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State (Minister for Local Transport), visited Aldershot to highlight the Government’s funding allocation to improve buses across the South East.

Simon Lightwood the Labour MP for Wakefield and Rothwell, met with representatives from Stagecoach South to discuss how funding could improve services, which connect rural communities and help passengers attend hospital appointments.

This investment is part of a wider £955 million nationwide funding package, which will see local authorities given the funding and power to improve bus frequency, increase fare discounts and enhance reliability.

Mr Lightwood said: “The value of regular and reliable bus services cannot be understated, especially in rural locations where being connected is vital.

“For far too long, passengers across the country have suffered from unreliable services with buses hugely delayed, or not even turning up at all. This funding kickstarts the bus revolution to drive economic growth and deliver on our commitment to improve living standards across the country.

“We’ve already committed over £150 million to extend the bus fare cap and keep fares low, and this £124 million investment of further funding in the South East will mean local routes are protected, reliability is improved and the passenger is put first.”