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Bus Service Improvement Plan updated

Contents

1.Preface

2.Our Bus Vision

  • Local Transport goals for North Lincolnshire
  • Current situation in North Lincolnshire
  • Enhanced Bus Partnership Plan & Geographical Area
  • Bus Passenger Charter

3. Current Bus Offer to Passengers

  • Overview of bus network and commercial environment
  • Justgo DRT
  • Socially and economically necessary transport
  • Progress so far
  • Bus network planning and improvements to bus services
  • Desired outcomes and aims for 2025/26 – 2028/29
  • Bus Service improvement area
  • Size and age of fleet in operation
  • Bus Stops
  • Real time information
  • Concessionary fares
  • Operator tickets
  • Accessibility, inclusiveness, personal safety and security
  • Plus Bus
  • Evening and Sunday services
  • National Highways and Transport Network Survey
  • Key facts of current bus offer

4. Improvements Programme to 2025

  • North Lincolnshire BSIP+ Funding Allocation 18 Schemes NLC and bus operators will deliver as part of BSIP
  • Operator Commitment
  • Bus driver recruitment and retention
  • Allocation of funds so far

5. Ambitions and proposals for 2025/2030

  • Short-term ambitions for projects requiring Revenue funding
  • Long-term ambitions for projects requiring Revenue funding
  • Short-term ambitions for projects requiring Capital funding
  • Long-term ambitions for projects requiring Capital funding

6. Targets, performance monitoring and reporting

  • Local Bus Network
  • Targets for bus speed, punctuality and reliability
  • Targets for passenger patronage growth and customer satisfaction
  • Target improvements to encourage passenger usage
  • Targets for North Lincolnshire bus passenger growth
  • Targets for network coverage accessibility to services
  • Bus Connectivity Assessments

7. Appendices

A) Details of all bus routes running across North Lincolnshire
B) National Highways & Transport Network Survey
C) Summary of schemes using the BSIP+ funding
D) Letters of support

Enhanced Bus Partnership and BSIP 2022 – 2027

Several buses on a road with buildings in the backgroundUpdated 10 June 2024

Preface

North Lincolnshire Council produced and published a Bus Service Improvement Plan (BSIP) in 2021. Local Transport Authorities seeking to secure BSIP+ funding have now been asked to publish an updated and refreshed BSIP, superseding the 2021 document.

The purpose of the new BSIP document is to:

  • describe the bus network as it currently is, and the vision for the improved bus service, through the Enhanced Partnership in the BSIP area.
  • set out how North Lincolnshire Council will achieve the objectives of the National Bus Strategy, including the key objective of growing bus patronage, in its specific local context.
  • set out a detailed plan for delivery of the above that is aligned with the rest of North Lincolnshire’s Local Transport Plan.
  • clearly distinguish between:

(a) what has been delivered/will be completed by the end of 2023/24.

(b) what is programmed for delivery in 2024/25 with the known funding envelope.

(c) the ambitions and priorities for future delivery in 2025 and beyond, subject to future funding opportunities.

Our Bus Service Improvement Plan has been developed in partnership with local bus operators and neighbouring local authorities. It outlines our ambitious plans to transform bus services in North Lincolnshire, initially to build back passenger levels which reduced during the Covid pandemic, and subsequently to encourage even more people to choose travelling by bus as a sustainable alternative to the private car.

Over the following pages you can read about how our plans to enhance bus services in North Lincolnshire will enable everyone to access opportunities, combat rural isolation and increase mobility across the whole of the county.

Julie Reed says

In North Lincolnshire we recognise the importance of being connected and public transport allows our residents to access employment, school, health, retail and leisure.

Image of Cllr Julie Reed

Investing our Bus Service Improvement grant in more frequent services at a time when people want to use them has been successful in raising the passenger experience. This builds on the strong working relationship with bus operators through the Enhanced Partnership, we have been able to make noticeable improvements to North Lincolnshire’s bus network. Journeys now run later, more frequently and connect more people than ever.

We are affirming our commitment to the most vulnerable in our society, through reduced fares of only £1.50 for under 19s during school holidays. This, alongside the £3 fare cap, which has been extended until at least March 2027, shows that bus passengers are being firmly supported and we are extremely proud of what we’ve achieved so far.

In North Lincolnshire we have a proud record of delivering a generous concessionary scheme, with bus pass holders being able to travel for free anytime, compared to regional neighbours offering the minimum statutory requirement, our service includes before 9.30am and weekends.

We have already installed 49 electronic real time information displays across the county, allowing passengers to keep fully up to date of when the next bus is expected to arrive and if there are any delays, cancelations or disruption to their journey, and plans are in place to improve bus stops and stations in the near future.

Working alongside our partners through the Enhanced Partnership is allowing us to transform the region’s bus experience, and there has never been a better time to take the bus in North Lincolnshire.

Cllr Julie Reed

2. Our Bus Vision for North Lincolnshire

The long- term vision for transport in North Lincolnshire is:
“A well maintained transport system that supports sustainable communities within a safe and prosperous environment and which contributes to the wider environmental, economic and social wellbeing of the people who live and work in North Lincolnshire”

Local Transport Goals for North Lincolnshire

Facilitate economic growth by targeting transport improvements in key development areas and along key strategic network corridors.

  • Reduce transport related carbon dioxide emissions and protect and enhance the natural and built environment through sustainable transport solutions.
  • Improve transport safety and security relating to death or injury from transport, to contribute towards safer and stronger communities.
  • Provide equal opportunities through improvements in accessibility to key local hubs and services by sustainable modes of transport.
  • Enhance people’s health and wellbeing through the promotion of healthy modes of travel and provision of a high-quality integrated transport system that contributes towards long term sustainable regeneration.

North Lincolnshire Local Transport Plan 2011 – 2026

Current Situation in North Lincolnshire

In July 2023 North Lincolnshire Council (NLC) set up an Enhanced Partnership (EP), made up of local government officers and bus operators who provide qualifying local bus services in the EP area. This BSIP aims to increase patronage firstly back to pre-pandemic levels and then beyond; improve passenger confidence and increase customer satisfaction. The Partnership recognises the importance of encouraging modal shift towards sustainable transport through actions and policies. This is reflected within the bus priorities section of this document and will feature in future BSIPs.

This document was developed in collaboration with our main local operators: Stagecoach East Midlands, Hornsby Travel and East Yorkshire Buses with input from our key stakeholders.

The North Lincolnshire Enhanced Partnership will be governed by two primary bodies:

  • North Lincolnshire Enhanced Bus Partnership Board – Local Authority representatives and
    bus operators.
  • Bus Traffic Working Group – Operational representatives from bus operators.

As part of the Greater Lincolnshire devolution proposal, NLC will be working with North East Lincolnshire Council and Lincolnshire County Council colleagues to develop a strategic transport approach for the proposed combined county authority which is planned to be introduced in 2024/2025.

The combined county authority will undertake a new role to lead on the national debate on transport for rural communities and to address the challenges across the three authority areas and their neighbours. The combined authority will lead on all aspects of transport strategy to bring together a single Local Transport Plan (LTP) and review existing public transport options to maximise the approach across all three areas. It will specifically look at the BSIP and bring together a joined up strategic approach to improve bus services across the combined authority area for the benefit of all passengers.

With the combined authority having the strategic lead on transport it will enable improved transport links across Greater Lincolnshire and provide a trade corridor to the Humber and East Midlands freeport and beyond.

Enhanced Bus Partnership Plan Geographical Area

The North Lincolnshire Enhanced Partnership covers the whole of the administrative area of North Lincolnshire Council for which there will be a single Enhanced Partnership.

Figure 1. Administrative area of North Lincolnshire Council

Map of North Lincolnshire administrative area

North Lincolnshire Council has published this revised BSIP which is intended to set out clearly the vision and plan for improving bus services and growing bus patronage to pre-pandemic levels in line with the National Bus Strategy. Bus services are a vital public service in North Lincolnshire and we aim to ensure that buses are an attractive alternative to the car. The range of trips mainly focus on work, retail, education, health care and leisure.

In addition to producing a BSIP, an Enhanced Partnership Plan and Scheme have also been developed in conjunction with the Enhanced Partnership Board. These set out the obligations and requirements on the local authority and operators of local bus services to achieve the intended improvements, with the aim of delivering the objectives of the associated EP Plan. The Plan and Scheme were initially made for a four-year period between 2023 – 2027. This will now be updated in line with this BSIP.

The EP Scheme includes a series of goals to improve the quality of public transport provision across North Lincolnshire. The EP will work through the detail of each of the proposed measures, including detailed targets and implementation dates, to be included in the Scheme through the bespoke variation process.

Bus Passenger Charter

North Lincolnshire Council updated its Bus Charter in October 2024 which commits to a raft of improvements to bus journeys. It is designed to ensure the best possible experience for passengers.

North Lincolnshire Council, Stagecoach East Midlands, Hornsby Travel and East Yorkshire Buses signed the charter which commits to provide routes to key communities, fair and transparent ticketing, and people travelling in comfort and safety on reliable services which are accessible to everyone. The charter will be reviewed annually.

Representatives from various organisations stood in front of vehicles from each company.

Figure 2. Launch of bus passenger charter

3. Current Bus Offer to Passengers

Overview of Network and Commercial Environment in North Lincolnshire

The two prominent bus operators in North Lincolnshire are: Stagecoach East Midlands, which is part of a large national UK group, and Hornsby Travel, a local family-run business based in Scunthorpe. These are complemented by services operated by First South Yorkshire and 21 Transport who operate a limited number of scheduled services. The JustGo Demand Responsive Transport (DRT) service is run by East Yorkshire Buses. North Lincolnshire Council are also currently operating two community transport services, one in the Wolds area of North Lincolnshire and one in the Isle of Axholme.

The subsidised bus network contracted by the Council is designed, in close conjunction with local users and officers, with a detailed appreciation of the needs of North Lincolnshire. In June 2023, North Lincolnshire Council, in collaboration with local bus operators, undertook a full network review to identify gaps in the network. The gap analysis highlighted the need for weekend and evening services which was used to inform enhanced service delivery.

Through the Enhanced Partnership new and extended services have been implemented and funded from the BSIP+ 2023/24 and 2024/25 government funding. The majority of new services were added to the network in April 2024, and services will be reviewed when necessary. The new journeys offer increased connectivity between villages and towns in North Lincolnshire where there were gaps in service. The new schemes will help combat rural isolation and increase rural mobility enabling residents to attend health appointments, go shopping and have improved independence. In addition, there are now improved cross-boundary connections, allowing North Lincolnshire residents to access more frequent services into Hull and Doncaster.

The densest coverage is in Scunthorpe with routes extending outwards to key rural settlements. The rural network is well-served geographically by a mixture of schedules bus services, the JustGo DRT service and community buses.

The maps below provide an overview of the scheduled bus network in Scunthorpe town centre and routes extending outwards to other key settlements such as Barton, Brigg and Crowle.

Figure 3. Overview of bus network across the whole of North Lincolnshire

Map showing an overview of bus network across the whole of North Lincolnshire

Figure 4. Overview of bus network in Scunthorpe Town

Map showing Overview of bus network in Scunthorpe Town

JustGo Demand Responsive Transport (DRT)

JustGo DRT service is a vital service which provides connectivity to the largely rural communities of North Lincolnshire. Bookings can be made for any journey within North Lincolnshire, except those within Scunthorpe or served by fixed-route bus services.

The DRT in North Lincolnshire runs under a single operating zone. In July 2022 refinements were made to the service to help improve journey times, availability, and reliability. The service runs six days a week 7am to 7pm (8am to 6pm on Saturdays) with four wheelchair accessible vehicles. It uses Liftango technology for booking and scheduling.

JustGo is a demand responsive mode of transport open to all passengers provided they live in the areas served. Passengers must register prior to be permitted to use the service and book their journey(s) in advance. Passengers must pre-book their journey by application or by telephone. Booking requests can be made from up to 28 days prior to travel.

Users are picked up from ‘virtual bus stops’ which are not necessarily traditional marked bus stops. Users with limited mobility can arrange to be collected and dropped off at their home but must be registered to do so.

Figure 5. Map of DRT Stops across North Lincolnshire

Map of DRT Stops across North Lincolnshire

Socially and economically necessary services

Local bus services provide a vital lifeline for all members of the community who do not have access to a private vehicle, who are unable to drive a car, ride a bike or walk far for any reason.

Bus services are also vital to the functioning of the local economy by allowing people to get to workplaces, hence the concept of socially and economically necessary bus services (SENS) and of minimum standards for the SENS network. The simplest and most efficient way to fund a good SENS network is for the bus service to have a good revenue base of fare-paying passengers by being attractive to all kinds of people, including those who do have a private vehicle available or for those trips where taking the bus makes sense. The Enhanced Partnership Board has identified the potential of introducing transport hubs across North Lincolnshire where services could connect and reduce passenger travel time.
In line with the council’s Local Transport Plan, North Lincolnshire will use the following criteria when selecting services:

  • Allow travel to and from work, college and training opportunities at peak and shift change times.
  • Allow access to shops and personal businesses.
  • Allow access to medical facilities.
  • Carry 50% or more of passengers who are elderly or people with disabilities.
  • Form most or all of a limited public transport service for a village or area.
  • Are funded jointly with other directorates, authorities or outside bodies.
  • A substantial unmet travel demand.
  • Passenger growth.

When applying value for money checks to supported services, North Lincolnshire Council will critically examine the need to continue services as outlined in the current LTP.

  • Regularly carry less than six passengers.
  • As of June 2025 bus services should have a net subsidy cost per passenger that is less than £5.10 for urban areas and £7.50 for rural areas
  • Have an alternative public transport service which is reasonably available.

(The LTP is currently being updated which may result in changes to this current criteria).

Progress so far

Overall bus usage has been declining in North Lincolnshire for a number of years. The Bus Service Improvement Plan 2021 explained how it would address known issues, bring improvement and use Bus Back Better to support growth in North Lincolnshire. We believe we have met the objectives:

Progress so far
Objectives of BSIP 2021 How we addressed objectives
Enhanced services and investments on key corridors with routes that are easier to understand. We have identified gaps in services and implemented new or extended services on key corridors
Significant improvements in bus priority measures. A working group made up of operators and North Lincolnshire Council employees has been set up and meet on a regular basis to discuss bus priority as set out on page 32 of this document. We are exploring traffic light priority measures, potentially giving buses priority at signals where heavy traffic often builds up.
Integrated local ticketing between operators. The two main operators within North Lincolnshire run integrated ticketing schemes on key routes.
Fares must be simplified. Fares for under 19s are set at £1.50 during school holidays, allowing for greater freedom to access leisure facilities for our young people. Stagecoach has introduced a simplified fare structure across the region with four bands of singles and returns, a new range of youth tickets, and reduced fare zones. The national £3 fare cap has now been extended to March 2027
Service patterns must be integrated with other modes ie rail. Bus service extensions allow for greater links to the rail network across North Lincolnshire, with bus services serving railway stations such as Scunthorpe, Barnetby, Barton, Crowle and Althorpe. This allows customers to then access rail links further afield to destinations such as London, Nottingham and Sheffield.
Clear passenger information with simple numbering system. We have introduced real time information at multiple key locations in North Lincolnshire and will increase the number of information boards at key stops and interchanges which will contribute to the improvement of bus priority. We have achieved simplification of the bus numbering system across the bus network in North Lincolnshire resulting in clearer and simpler information for the passenger. One such example of this is the renumbering of services 1 and 2, with the new 1A and 2A routes.
Modern buses and decarbonisation. Operators are working towards buses which have the highest quality interior on the scheduled services ideally with leather seats and USB charging points. 50% of the buses running in North Lincolnshire meet Euro V (5) emissions. Our ambition is that this level of quality will continue. We will consider installing EV charging points as part of the Scunthorpe Bus Station redevelopment plans.
Give passengers more of a voice and a say. We have undertaken surveys on key routes and will be holding roadshows in key locations across North Lincolnshire. Information gathered will be used to plan services in the future. Summer roadshows and on-bus surveys will be carried out going forward, to ensure passenger voices continue to be heard.
Services which are safe for all. An audit of all bus infrastructure has been carried out and will continue to be done annually or when there is a timetable change on a service. Maintenance of bus stops and shelters will continue to be ongoing. Operators have signed the Bus Passenger Charter and have agreed they have a duty of care to run safe services which includes commitment to offering passengers a smooth journey experience in a clean, well-maintained bus by checking vehicles to ensure all automatic heating, cooling, and lighting systems are working as intended and all drivers are professionally trained to operate their vehicle to provide passengers with a safe and comfortable ride.
More demand-responsive services and ‘socially necessary’ transport, ie shift patterns, health centres. New and extended services have been implemented to help combat social isolation.

Bus network planning and improvements to bus services

This section sets out the proposals and actions which will collectively deliver the overall vision to transform bus services in North Lincolnshire and grow bus patronage.

Our desired outcomes and aims for 2025/26 – 2028/29 for our BSIP are listed below:

Bus network planning and improvements to bus services
Bus Vision Local Transport Plan Goals Targets for the future
More frequent Facilitate economic growth by targeting transport improvements in key development areas and along key strategic network corridors Establish core 30 minutes for urban routes and 60 minute frequencies on key corridor route from rural settlements to main towns.
Faster and more reliable Facilitate economic growth by targeting transport improvements in key development areas and along key strategic network corridors. Pinch points have been identified and discussed at the Bus Traffic Working Group. Plans are in development to alleviate these pinch points through schemes including Lincolnshire Lakes and Barton link road. Provision of real time information at key stops will facilitate and contribute to reduced boarding times. Bus stops will be clearly marked to reduce parking violations. NLC to assist bus operators with driver recruitment advertising to ensure buses run as scheduled.
Cheaper Facilitate economic growth by targeting transport improvements in key development areas and along key strategic network corridors. We aim to offer value for money fares and run promotions including youth and child tickets in school holidays.
More comprehensive Facilitate economic growth by targeting transport improvements in key development areas and along key strategic network corridors. Implementation of more scheduled services and DRT services will improve rural connectivity on weekends, evenings and Sundays. Aim to introduce new services to key employees.
Easier to understand Facilitate economic growth by targeting transport improvements in key development areas and along key strategic network corridors Following the successful simplification of the bus numbering system we will continue to work with operators to identify and simplify further the bus numbering system. Timetable changes to be widely published no more than three times per year.
Easier to use Facilitate economic growth by targeting transport improvements in key development areas and along key strategic network corridors. Continue to maintain inter-ticketing between Stagecoach East Midlands and Hornsby Travel across Scunthorpe Town. Option for both contactless and cash payment offered as standard. Weekly, monthly and flexi tickets are available to purchase from operators.
Better integrated with other modes and each other Provide equal opportunities through improvements in accessibility to key local hubs and services by sustainable modes of transport.

Enhance people’s health and wellbeing through the promotion of healthy modes of travel and provision of a high-quality integrated transport system that contributes towards long term sustainable regeneration.

 Explore the possibility of reintroducing the park and ride service via Scunthorpe rail station.

This would feed into Scunthorpe Bus Station and Scunthorpe General Hospital. Improving connectivity to health facilities.

This will consider DRT service connectivity to existing scheduled bus services and transport hubs.

An inter-ticketing scheme will be devised to enable seamless journeys between operators.
Better to ride in Improve transport safety and security relating to death or injury from transport, in order to
contribute towards safer and stronger communities.		 As per the bus charter, customers can expect a smooth journey experience in a clean, well maintained bus. All major bus operators running registered services across North Lincolnshire have agreed to this.
Greener Reduce transport related carbon dioxide emissions and protect and enhance the natural and
built environment through sustainable transport solutions.Enhance people’s health and wellbeing through the promotion of healthy modes of travel and provision of a high quality integrated transport system that contributes towards long term sustainable regeneration.		 By 2035 we aim to achieve 25% of fleet zero emissions buses. Our aspirations are to make steps to achieve this earlier subject to feasibility outcomes.

Promote buses as a commuter service and make buses the preferred mode of transport to reduce car usage.

Where possible, school and college pupils will be encouraged to use the existing bus provision in North Lincolnshire.

Due to congestion and inconvenience caused by vehicles parking in bus stops, there will be no observation time and a parking notification will be issued to any vehicle parking in a bus stop.
Accessible and inclusive network, by design Provide equal opportunities through improvements in accessibility to key local hubs and services by sustainable modes of transport. Provide raised kerbs for improved access at bus stops. Lighting to be installed at all bus shelters to improve safety. Monthly bus station inspections ensure Scunthorpe bus station will continue to be fully accessible to all.
Innovative Provide equal opportunities through improvements in accessibility to key local hubs and services by sustainable modes of transport. We aim to ensure that every bus stop will have a QR code to enable passengers have full access to on-line timetables.
A safe mode of transport which is seen as safe Improve transport safety and security relating to death or injury from transport, in order to contribute towards safer and stronger communities. Improvements to the bus infrastructure across North Lincolnshire are in progress.
Scunthorpe bus station is to undergo redevelopment which will improve the overall passenger experience. This will include the provision of real-time displays and include lighting at all key stops. Operators have signed the Bus Passenger Charter and have agreed they have a duty of care to run safe services which includes commitment to offering passengers a smooth journey experience in a clean, well-maintained bus and all drivers are professionally trained to operate their vehicle to provide passengers with a safe and comfortable ride.

The twelve goals above will provide us with a starting point for both the analysis of the current bus service offer to passengers and the proposals for its improvement.

Appendix A details information about the current bus services in the BSIP area and supported fixed route network. Key bus routes and bus corridors and the frequency of service on them, at relevant times and days of the week, have also been identified which have been procured by contract and those which have been supported by other means including de minimis payment.

Bus Service Improvement Area

North Lincolnshire is situated on the east coast of England, along the southern side of the river Humber Estuary. With the Humber as its northern aspect, North Lincolnshire borders North East Lincolnshire, Lincolnshire, Nottinghamshire and South Yorkshire.

North Lincolnshire’s 846m2 land area is predominantly rural with five significant towns: Scunthorpe, Brigg, Crowle, Epworth and Barton-upon-Humber in addition to other smaller towns and villages. The area is home to over 169,000 people, supports over 70,000 jobs and over 6,800 businesses (Nomis local authority labour market profile).

The BSIP will link closely with the North Lincolnshire Economic Growth Plan. The priorities for this plan are:

Priority 1

A place where people, places and products are connected globally to deliver sustainable economic growth.

  • To further enhance North Lincolnshire as a global trade gateway – connecting businesses across the UK, Europe and Worldwide
  • To deliver high quality, sustainable, resilient infrastructure
  • Secure greater freedoms and flexibilities at a local level

Priority 2

A place where businesses and residents make positive changes to create a cleaner, greener, healthier and more sustainable future for North Lincolnshire.

  • To move to net zero economy
  • Enable high quality and environmentally sustainable homes in flourishing communities
  • Promote health, wellbeing and a good quality of life.

Priority 3

A place which enables and encourages businesses, residents and communities to achieve their full potential.

  • Ensure everyone has the opportunity to learn, work, upskill, re-skill and build a career
  • Drive growth and innovation in our key sectors.
  • Regenerate town centres

Impacts of the Priorities

Priority one

North Lincolnshire has a strong, competitive and productive economy that is well connected both digitally and multimodally.

Priority two

North Lincolnshire has a good quality of life where the air is cleaner and homes are decent on every rung of the ladder.

Priority three

North Lincolnshire residents have the opportunity to reskill or upskill to level 3 and beyond.

The area also falls within the locations covered by the Northern Powerhouse and Midlands Engine and the Council is a member of Transport for the North (TfN) and Midlands Connect. North Lincolnshire sits at the heart of several economic corridors which offer opportunities for growth.

We work closely with our neighbouring local authorities and work in partnership with the objective of providing passengers with a coherent and joined-up network across the region. Cross-boundary services form a vital element of the overall offer for bus passengers across Lincolnshire and Yorkshire. These services provide opportunities for our residents to access a wider range of employment, education and leisure facilities, alongside attracting commuters and visitors into the area from the wider county and beyond. By offering a DRT service we are improving rural connectivity within the area.

Figure 6: North Lincolnshire’s Economic Corridors

North Lincolnshire's economic corridors

Size and age of fleet in operation

The table below represents a breakdown of the fleet in operation run by Stagecoach East Midlands and Hornsby Travel on scheduled local services in North Lincolnshire.

Size and age of fleet in operation
Emissions standard Mini Midi Single decker Double Decker Coach Total %
Euro iii no data no data no data 6 no data 6 11%
Euro iv no data 2 2 3 6 13 24%
Euro 5 no data 4 17 4 2 27 50%
Euro 6 no data no data 7 1 no data 8 15%

One of the measures included in this BSIP is to achieve a minimum compliance of Euro 6 emissions standards and to have 25% of vehicle zero emissions by 2035.

The route between Scunthorpe and Hull (operated by Stagecoach) has the highest quality interior of the scheduled services with leather seats and USB charging points, the vehicles also meet Euro 6 emissions standards.

The JustGo DRT fleet of four 17-seater minibuses also meets Euro 6 emissions standards and have free WiFi, USB charging and leather seats. They also meet Euro 6 emissions standards. Our ambition is that this level of quality demonstrated by these fleets should become standard for bus travel in North Lincolnshire.

Bus stops

The table below presents a breakdown of bus stop infrastructure in North Lincolnshire.

Bus stops
Location Stops with shelters Stops without shelters Unmarked bus stops Total stops % with shelters
Scunthorpe 69 287 30 386 18%
Other towns and rural areas within North Lincolnshire 136 269 148 553 25%
Total 205 556 178 939 22%

 

The number of stops appear to meet the needs of residents however we recognise there is a need to ensure that our bus stops are safe, accessible, clean, free of graffiti, well-maintained and provide accurate up to date information.

At the time of writing a full audit is being carried out on our current roadside infrastructure (eg bus stops and shelters) against these minimum standards. The audit consists of:

  • Detailed audit to ascertain whether all current stops and shelters are required and are in an appropriate location.
  • Detailed specification of each individual bus stop including photos and features, assessed against the bus charter expectations.
  • Detailed breakdown of any revenue or capital works required to achieve the required standard.
  • Opportunities to provide real-time information at more stops, including options for sustainability solutions, eg solar panels to power real time information and lighting options etc.
  • Estimated cost to undertake any repairs, replacement infrastructure and real-time information.

Using the results from the full audit, the second phase is to carry out the necessary capital and revenue works identified to bring all bus stops and shelters in the area up to the expected standard. The scheme of works was approved at the EP meeting on 23rd November 2023.

Accessibility, inclusiveness, personal safety and security

Bus users should feel safe whilst travelling to the bus stop, on the bus and waiting for the bus to arrive. We therefore aim to add CCTV to stops where this is not present. The bus station and town centre bus stops are monitored by the Scunthorpe Town Centre CCTV Control Centre.

Bus operators have made significant investment in comprehensive driver training in customer care, disability awareness and inclusivity which is designed to support passengers when travelling on the local bus network.

The drivers will remain in contact with their depot at all times and operators have emergency procedures in place so that help can be summoned quickly if needed. We are currently working with Humberside Police who have been given funding to buy new equipment to help crack down on various antisocial behaviour. They have purchased drones to track people on dirt bikes and quad bikes in rural areas and introduced more local police officers to patrol the areas to help dismantle organised crime links and reduce the antisocial behaviour which is used by these groups.

Real Time Bus Information

Real Time Information works using satellite tracking of the bus location. It calculates the arrival times based on the current traffic conditions and journey times. At present, 49 of these Real Time Information (RTI) displays have been installed across North Lincolnshire. A list of these can be found at

More real time bus information can be found on the Traveline website.

Using the www.traveline.info website, passengers can plan journeys from and to a postcode, postal address, town or village, named station or stop, or point of interest.

Passengers can also call Traveline on 0871 200 22 33 to plan a journey.

Concessionary Fares Scheme

The concessionary market in North Lincolnshire is relatively large, accounting for approximately 50% of the total market. This demonstrates the difficult market that exists in North Lincolnshire for the commercial operators given that such a large proportion of the market is driven by concessionary travel.

The bus provides a crucial lifeline for these concessionary passengers and it is important that this BSIP considers ways to improve passenger safety to ensure these users can reconnect with necessary services and leisure activities.

Holders of the English National Concessionary Travel Scheme (ENCTS) pass issued by other authorities may board buses in North Lincolnshire. The scheme applies between 9.30am and 11.00pm Monday to Friday and all day on Saturdays, Sundays and bank holidays.

For holders of this pass issued by North Lincolnshire Council, the scheme provides free travel as above, but may offer additional discretionary entitlement journeys beginning within the boundary of North Lincolnshire.

Residents with a North Lincolnshire Concessionary Fare Bus Pass can travel at a reduced fare on local trains within North Lincolnshire, as far as Cleethorpes. Residents can also travel by train to and from Lincoln and Gainsborough, but these journeys must only be via Barnetby. Journeys from Brigg and Kirton in Lindsey to Gainsborough are available on Mondays to Fridays.

There are currently 25,807 North Lincolnshire passes in circulation. The breakdown of the passes is:

  • Elderly 22639
  • Disabled 1480
  • Disabled with companion 968

Operator Ticket types

The operators who run services across North Lincolnshire offer a varied assortment of tickets and prices. Links to the ticket types offered by the two major operators in North Lincolnshire are shown at Appendix A.

North Lincolnshire Council and bus operators offer Journey Assist Cards to alleviate obstacles which may be encountered by some passengers.

Bus drivers have been trained to recognise these cards.

As detailed in our bus charter, all buses will provide pushchair and wheelchair spaces.

A range of cards for assistance with travel, eg, Please speak slowly

Plus Bus

PlusBus tickets are accepted on all services operated by Stagecoach East Midlands, East Yorkshire Buses, and Hornsby Travel. Tickets are available to purchase for daily, weekly, monthly, or annual travel to and from Scunthorpe railway station. The Scunthorpe PlusBus zone boundary extends to destinations including Scunthorpe General Hospital, Scunthorpe United Football Club, and Lakeside Retail Park.

Figure 7. Scunthorpe Plus Bus Zone Boundary

Map of North Lincolnshire showing the boundary for the Plus Bus

Evening and Sunday services

The Enhanced Partnership Board recognised that evening and Sunday services were relatively poor across North Lincolnshire with very few of the scheduled services operating on Sundays or beyond 6pm Monday to Saturday. The gaps in service have now been filled with additional and extended services added.

 

Sunday services running in North Lincolnshire
Service no. Route Frequency
1A/2A Scunthorpe Bus Station – Gallagher Retail Park, Ashby High Street, Lakeside Morrisons, Scunthorpe Bus Station Hourly
8.30am – midnight
4 Scunthorpe Bus Station – Ashby High Street, Lakeside Morrisons, Broughton, Brigg Every two hours
9.15am – 5.45pm
6 Scunthorpe Bus Station – Ashby Road, Ashby High Street Hourly
9am – 5pm
7 Scunthorpe Bus Station – Scunthorpe General Hospital, Skippingdale Retail Park Every two hours
9am – 6pm
8 Scunthorpe Bus Station – Scunthorpe General Hospital, Skippingdale Retail Park Every two hours
9am – 6pm
250 Louth- Holton le Clay- Grimsby- Ulceby- Barrow upon Humber- Barton Interchange- Humber Bridge Nth Approach- Hull Interchange Every two hours
6.45am – 6.45pm
350/355 Scunthorpe Bus Station – Winterton Tesco express, Ferriby Sluice, Barton Interchange, Humber Bridge Nth Approach, Hull Interchange Every two hours
9am – 9.30pm

 

Sunday service provision is focused on Scunthorpe as well as providing connectivity out of the area to Hull.

 

Evening Services – Monday to Saturday
Service no. Route Frequency
1A Scunthorpe Bus Station – Gallagher Retail Park, Ashby High Street , Lakeside Morrisons, Scunthorpe Bus Station Runs until
midnight
4 Scunthorpe Bus Station – Ashby High Street, Lakeside Morrisons, Broughton, Brigg Runs until 9.30pm
90 Scunthorpe Bus Station – Gallagher Retail Park, Gunness, Althorpe, Ealand, Crowle Runs until 7.20pm Monday – Thursday

Runs until 10pm Friday and Saturday
103 Scunthorpe Bus Station – Messingham, Kirton in Lindsey Runs until 7pm
Monday – ThursdayRuns until 10.30pm Friday and Saturday
250 Louth- Holton le Clay- Grimsby- Ulceby- Barrow upon Humber- Barton Interchange- Humber Bridge Nth Approach- Hull Interchange Runs until 9pm
350/355 Scunthorpe Bus Station – Winterton Tesco express, Ferriby Sluice, Barton Interchange, Humber Bridge Nth Approach, Hull Interchange Runs until
midnight
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National Highways & Transport Network Survey

North Lincolnshire Council takes part in the annual national highways & transport network survey. This survey collects the public’s views on various aspects of transport in local authority areas and includes specific questions regarding local bus services. The survey (2024) indicated that 55% of respondents were happy with local bus services overall (in this case, the same as the national average). The key satisfaction results for past 5 years are shown at Appendix B.

Key Facts of the Current Bus Offer

Baseline spending on buses by LTA in 2023/24 and 2024/25

Bus Service Budget Revenue Spending Capital
Spending		 Concessionary fare reimbursement to operators
NLC Bus budget 2024/25 £681,000 £ 1,390,692.76 £ 179929 £ 1,557,690
NLC Bus budget 2023/24 £ 677,000 £ 759,392 £ 0 £ 1,580,721
BSIP Funding spend 2023/24 £ 0 £ 519,490 £ 27,889 £ 0
BSOG funding for 2024/25 £ 135,000 £ 0 £ 0 £ 0
BSOG funding for 2023/24 £ 135,000 £ 0 £ 0 £ 0

4. Improvements Programme to 2025

In December 2024, DfT Ministers announced a BSIP funding package for the sector from April 2025 to March 2026. The funding is intended to protect bus services, keep travel affordable and support the bus sector’s long-term recovery through to March 2026.

In October 2023 the Government announced the continuation of the national £2 fare cap scheme (launched in January 2023) through to December 2024, to help rebuild patronage and assist households with the cost of living. It also announced additional BSIP Phase 3 funding for LTAs in the North and Midlands as part of the Network North command paper, repurposing funding previously committed to HS2 Phase 2. The £2 fare cap was replaced by the current £3 fare cap in January 2025, which has now been extended until March 2027.

North Lincolnshire BSIP+ Funding Allocation

North Lincolnshire Council has been allocated the following BSIP+ funding:

Bus Grant RDEL = £1,527,807
Bus Grant CDEL= £1,380,442
Total= £2,908,248

The following proposals have been agreed by the Enhanced Partnership Board and will be funded from the BSIP+ allocation in a way consistent with the Department’s guidance on Bus Service Improvement Plans.

graphic showing single bus fares are £2

Schemes North Lincolnshire Council and Local Bus Operators will deliver as part of the BSIP Programme

NLC’s investment in the bus network includes expenditure on supported bus services, provision of passenger waiting facilities, at-stop information, bus priority and reduced fares. It is the intention that the Council will continue this existing support subject to the usual budgetary review procedures. BSIP+ funding will be additional to previously planned bus funding levels, ie base funding for buses is not reduced.

The bus operators’ investment in the bus network consists of service provisions and vehicles. It is the intention that the operators will maintain their ongoing investment by committing to standards of service that reflect future investments in vehicles and technology.

Operators should make every effort to comply with the requirements of the Enhanced Partnership including patronage and ticket sales data, participation in ticketing schemes and meeting punctuality and reliability standards.

Through the EP Board, gaps were identified in the bus network. This resulted in an enhanced public transport offer being delivered through the addition of new and extensions to existing services. These include evening and weekend journeys where no or limited services previously existed. Full list at Appendix C.

The following proposals have been agreed by the Enhanced Partnership Board and will be funded from the BSIP+ allocation in a way consistent with the Department’s guidance on Bus Service Improvement Plans.

Bus Disruption Survey

An Enhanced Partnership Sub-Group has been set up made up of NLC transport and highways staff and local bus operators. The Group discuss bus priority, any new road improvement schemes and priorities for improving interchanges, focusing on the objectives sought and the types of measures and changes that will achieve them, whilst also considering the impacts on other road users and local businesses. Objectives will generally include:

 

  • Fast or delay-free journey time
  • Reliable or consistent journey times
  • Increased patronage and passenger use
  • Buses as an attractive and accessible choice for passengers
  • A genuine alternative to private vehicles

Intervention:

Faster and more reliable
The aim is to reduce journey times and improve reliability of buses which will improve confidence in passengers and therefore increase bus usage. This will be achieved by reducing boarding times through building on successful contactless payments, improvement to raised kerb provision and increased road marking to clearly show bus stopping area.

We will identify “quick win” schemes through engagement with the route bus drivers to determine route challenges that can be improved or adapted to reduce delays across the bus network e.g. refining kerb lines and bus stop placement and passenger egress. In addition, feasibilities will be undertaken to implement traffic light priority schemes and re-alignment of junctions.

Outcomes – Any interventions will help to contribute to increase bus priority and deliver better information regarding disruption.

Delivery Timescale – Ongoing – Traffic Light Priority- We are looking into the feasibility of altering the traffic light signal priority, in favour of buses. This could help to alleviate delays for buses in heavily trafficked areas.

Maintenance of Bus Infrastructure

North Lincolnshire Council currently maintains 939 bus stops and 205 bus shelters across the authority. The purpose of this project is to carry out a full audit of bus stops and shelters across North Lincolnshire and to carry out repair and maintenance of the bus stops and shelters ensuring they meet health and safety standards and offer bus users a clean, safe, well-lit environment including poles, flags, timetable cases and timetables as well as an option to add real time information at key stops.

A full audit of all bus infrastructure will continue to be carried out annually or when there is a timetable change on a service. Maintenance of bus stops and shelters will continue to be ongoing with the possibility of introducing Gold, Silver and Bronze standard to reflect the level of usage.

Intervention:

Accessible and inclusive network, by design
Audits will highlight any damaged bus timetable cases and ensure they hold up-to-date timetable information. Ensure bus shelters are clean, tidy and accessible with any imperfections dealt with in a timely manner.

Outcomes – Consistently better kept facilities will hopefully encourage residents to use public transport services.

Delivery Timescale – Ongoing

 

We have delivered in 2025/26 the following:

  • 399 operates two hourly between Scunthorpe and Doncaster Monday to Friday
  • 399 bus between Scunthorpe and Doncaster now operates two hourly on Monday to Fridays. This provides more frequent connections to Doncaster from Scunthorpe and the Isle of Axholme, as well as offering residents a stop at Yorkshire Wildlife Park.

Intervention:

The increased frequency of this service allows for more cross-boundary connectivity, with residents in Scunthorpe and the Isle of Axholme provided with an improved serviced into Doncaster. Along the route is Yorkshire Wildlife Park and Doncaster Dome, allowing customers to access leisure facilities directly.

Outcomes:

A more reliable, frequent service connecting Scunthorpe and the Isle with Doncaster allows customers easy access to leisure facilities, education, shopping and onward railway connections at Scunthorpe, Doncaster and Althorpe stations.

Passenger Data:

Number of passengers during first two months of operation was 1,971.

Delivery Timescale:

The improvements to this service began on 7 April 2025.

Additional Friday service on service 398 between Belton and Gainsborough

The 398 service between Belton and Gainsborough now operates on Fridays, supplementing its Tuesday service.
Intervention: Residents in the Isle of Axholme now have a Friday service to Gainsborough and back, allowing customers a day in Gainsborough to go shopping and explore the town’s food and leisure facilities.

Outcomes:

This service allows residents in the Isle the chance to visit Gainsborough twice a week, as opposed to just once. It is hoped that the service will remain well used, and continue to offer a vital lifeline to residents in areas with limited public transport provision.

Passenger Data:

Number of passengers during the first two months of operation was 168.

Delivery Timescales:

The Friday 398 service began operating from April 2025.

350 extensions to Gallagher Retail Park

The 350 will now extend beyond Scunthorpe Bus Station to Gallagher Retail Park via Scunthorpe General Hospital.

Intervention:

The 350 extensions to Gallagher Retail Park now allow residents along the bus route in Barton, Winteringham and Winterton to access appointments at Scunthorpe General Hospital and shopping at Gallagher Retail Park without the need to change buses at Scunthorpe Bus Station.

Outcomes:

As residents can now access hospital appointments and a plethora of shopping facilities on one seamless journey, passenger number should continue to increase as they realise this service provides improved ease and convenience.

Passenger Data:

Passenger data is unavailable at the time of writing as this service has only just been introduced.

Delivery Timescale:

The extensions to Gallagher Retail Park began on September 1st 2025

Further journeys on Service 10 between Burringham, Parklands and Scunthorpe

Service 10 will be transferred from Stagecoach to Hornsbys, creating different routes in the process. On Mondays and Wednesdays, the service will be a 10b, operating from Burringham to Skippingdale Retail Park via Ashfield, Parklands and Gallagher Retail Park.
On Tuesdays and Fridays, the service will be a 10, running from Burringham to Scunthorpe Bus Station via Ashfield and Parklands.

The bus is a 10a on Thursdays, operating from Burringham to Lakeside via Ashfield, Parklands and Ashby.

Intervention:

We have listened to the feedback of regular users of the 10, and enacted upon it with these changes. Customers from Burringham now have a service to Skippingdale Retail Park, and improved connections across Scunthorpe.

Outcomes:

Enacting upon customer feedback should hopefully increase customer satisfaction on this service, as well as increasing passenger numbers.

Delivery Timescale:

This service began on October 6th.

Schemes delivered in 2024/25

Provision of reduced fares

Young people are entitled to reduced fares within the North Lincolnshire boundary at certain times:

• £1.50 cap fare for young people aged 5 – 19 during school holidays in North Lincolnshire.

Intervention:
Cheaper
Offering promotional fares will facilitate economic growth across North Lincolnshire.

Outcomes:

Reducing fares for young people will encourage travel from an early age reducing isolation in rural areas and give young people their own independence.

Delivery Timescale:

Scheme has been introduced, and is continuing throughout all school holidays

 

New c4 Saturday Service for South and East of Brigg

A new bus service has been set up to the villages South & East of Brigg on a Saturday. The services link into Brigg giving the same frequency of buses in the area Monday to Friday with a connection to buses for onward travel to Lakeside Retail Park, Ashby & Scunthorpe. The service also links to Humberside Airport.

Intervention:

More comprehensive and better integrated with other modes
The new service which links to Humberside Airport every two hours also gives access to Brigg for shopping especially for passengers in Barnetby that no longer have a train service on a Saturday to Brigg. This would allow passengers from the south of Brigg access into Brigg.

Outcomes – New journeys will benefit all residents in the villages where services currently serve Monday to Friday. These journeys will bring people into the town of Brigg to use local shops and markets on a Saturday with a connection to buses for onward travel to Lakeside Retail Park, Ashby & Scunthorpe. A model shift with residents should also reduce the number of cars travelling to Brigg.

The new service which links to Humberside Airport every two hours also gives younger people access to meeting friends in Brigg at a weekend which will facilitate economic growth by targeting transport improvements in key development areas and along key strategic network corridors and provide equal opportunities through improvements in accessibility to key local hubs and services by sustainable modes of transport.

Passenger data:
Number of passengers during the most recent two months of operation is 534

Delivery Timescale:
Commenced 2nd December 2023

Three different size buses from Hornsby's

Extension of 260 service to Immingham

South Killingholme has not had a regular scheduled bus service since the cancellation of service 450 in September 2020. Service 260 to Immingham has now been extended incorporating South Killingholme, North Killingholme and East Halton.

Intervention:

More comprehensive
Extension of the current route to further villages, now offers increased connectivity between North East Lincolnshire and North Lincolnshire.

Outcomes – The extended service will provide East Halton, South Killingholme and North Killingholme with a scheduled bus service. The purpose of this project is to provide residents in these villages with increased choice when it comes to public transport which will facilitate economic growth by targeting transport improvements in key development areas and along key strategic network corridors and provide equal opportunities through improvements in accessibility to key local hubs and services by sustainable modes of transport.

Passenger data:
Number of passengers during the most recent 2 months of operation is 2,079.

Delivery Timescale:
Commenced 19 February 2024

Section 22 Community Transport in North Lincolnshire

This project continues to provide Section 22 Community Transport on two registered bus routes in North Lincolnshire which operate Monday to Friday. This requires the continued hire of two 16-seater minibuses to provide the current bus services and the maintenance of two ticket machines in order to take payments. The routes are registered with the Traffic Commissioner and are an open service to any members of the public. The first registered route (96) is between Barton-upon-Humber and Brigg. The second registered bus route (97) is operating in the Isle of Axholme between Garthorpe and Wroot.

Intervention:

More comprehensive and better integrated with other modes and each other
Proposal will offer increased connectivity between villages/towns in North Lincolnshire.

Outcomes – The scheme will help combat rural isolation and increase rural mobility enabling residents to attend health appointments, go shopping and have independence which will enhance people’s health and wellbeing through the promotion of healthy modes of travel and provision of a high-quality integrated transport system that contributes towards long term sustainable regeneration.

Passenger Data: Number of passengers this financial year (April-October) so far is 4,320.

Delivery Timescale: Both services commenced on 2nd May 2023. Timetable for service 97 was updated 29 January 2024.

Route 97 Isle shopper service

Map of North Lincolnshire showing route 97 Isle shopper service

Route 96 Wolds shopper service

Map of North Lincolnshire showing route 96 Wolds shopper service

Extension of 350 service to Hull

A new 07:55 Sunday service has been added to the 350 timetable from Scunthorpe to Hull. This helps alleviate the pressure of the 10:00 service.

Interventions:

Innovative and more comprehensive
An extension to the service offers bus users the opportunity to travel to Hull for a full day and will offer increased connectivity between villages/towns in North Lincolnshire and South Yorkshire.

Outcomes – The additional run in the morning offers residents connections to a larger population centre, earlier on a Sunday. These improved connections would enable residents to attend health appointments, access to employment, go shopping and have independence.

Passenger data:
Number of passengers during the most recent 2 months of operation is 523.

Delivery Timescale:
Commenced 18 February 2024

Additional journeys on service 4 - Sundays and Bank Holidays

The additional journeys on service 4 to Brigg on Sundays and Bank Holidays will:

a) Provide a 09:00 service from Scunthorpe to Brigg and return journey to commence at 09:45 arriving at Scunthorpe Bus Station at 10:35.
b) Provide an extension to the 17:45 service which currently terminates at 18.02 at Lakeside Morrisons, the journey will continue to Brigg. The return journey commences at 18:30 to Scunthorpe Bus Station.

Interventions:

Innovative and more comprehensive
2 additional services to Brigg on Sundays and Bank Holidays. An extension to the service offers bus users the opportunity to travel to Brigg earlier and later in the day.

Outcomes – The timetabled services ensure residents have connections to larger population centres. An extension to the service offers bus users to travel to Brigg for a full day and will offer increased connectivity between villages and towns in North Lincolnshire, giving residents increased access to leisure activities, access to employment, to go shopping and have independence.

Passenger data:
Number of passengers during the most recent 2 months of operation is 141.

Delivery Timescale:
Commenced 1 April 2024

Revised service 10 - Monday to Friday from Burringham

We have revised the service 10 timetable. The old timetable only operated on Tuesdays and Thursdays and only included Burringham on Fridays.

The new timetable provides a more consistent route for residents of Burringham, Ashfield Caravan site and Parklands Caravan Site. The route ensures residents have connections to larger population centres and provide access to Ashby High Street and Lakeside Retail Park – Monday to Friday.

New timetable:
09:30 from Burringham to Scunthorpe Bus Station
12:00 return from Scunthorpe Bus Station
12:30 from Burringham to Scunthorpe Bus Station

Interventions:
Innovative and more comprehensive
These enhanced connections will enable residents to attend health appointments, go shopping, access employment and have independence.

Outcomes – The timetabled services ensure residents have connections to larger population centres and will reduce social isolation. An extension to the service offers bus users to travel to Scunthorpe Monday to Friday and will offer increased connectivity between villages and towns in North Lincolnshire and therefore provide residents with increased access to leisure activities and employment, to go shopping and have independence. The purpose of this project is to provide residents in Burringham with increased choice when it comes to public transport which will facilitate economic growth by targeting transport improvements in key development areas and along key strategic network corridors and provide equal opportunities through improvements in accessibility to key local hubs and services by sustainable modes of transport.

Passenger data:
Number of passengers during the most recent 2 months of operation is 119.

Delivery Timescale:
Commenced 2 April 2024

Additional evening journeys on service 90 to Crowle

We have recently identified a gap in the bus services which run to Crowle, which has a population of 3,930. Previously, the last bus from Scunthorpe to Crowle was 17:20 returning at 17:55 which limited the ability of the bus service to support the leisure & retail quarter within the town centre.

The additional service 90 evening journeys now run:

1) Monday to Saturday at 19:00 from Scunthorpe Bus Station and return.
2) Friday and Saturday late service at 21:30 from Scunthorpe Bus Station and return, which will encompass Gallagher retail park, Gunness and Keadby, Althorpe, Ealand and Crowle.

Interventions:

More comprehensive and Innovative
The service 90 to Crowle ceased early evening and therefore restricted travel for those residents living in rural locations. These improved connections enable residents to increase their evening social time and have independence. It is hoped these options will reduce rural social isolation and increase rural mobility.

Outcomes – The scheme has helped increase rural mobility. Late journeys from Scunthorpe to Crowle at 21:30 on Fridays and Saturdays will enable access to evening leisure activities and therefore facilitate economic growth by targeting transport improvements in key development areas and provide equal opportunities through improvements in accessibility to key local hubs and services by sustainable modes of transport.

The new service will also enhance people’s health and wellbeing through the promotion of healthy modes of travel and provision of a high-quality integrated transport system that contributes towards long term sustainable regeneration.

Passenger data:
Number of passengers during the most recent 2 months of operation is 136.

Delivery Timescale:
Commenced 2 April 2024

Additional evening journeys on service 350

A new timetable has been introduced for evening services from Scunthorpe Bus Station to Hull commencing at 17:45. Last return at 23:00 from Hull. Previously the last bus from Hull was at 20:30.

Interventions:

More frequent, more comprehensive and Innovative
Provision of additional journeys allows for more travel opportunities opening up access to employment, leisure and retail. It also gives car users further incentive to use the bus as it allows additional flexibility for their travel plans. These improved connections enable residents to increase their evening social time and have independence. It is hoped these options will reduce rural social isolation and increase rural mobility.

Outcomes – Hull is a large city on the North of the Humber. The enhanced frequency will increase the attractiveness and convenience of the service making savings for customers in waiting and overall journey times. The principal objective of this project is to increase the evening availability of service 350 to provide later customer journeys for employment, education, and leisure opportunities between areas of North Lincolnshire and Hull. The new service will enhance health and wellbeing through promoting independent lifestyles especially for younger people and the elderly.

Passenger data:
Number of passengers during the most recent 2 months of operation is 5,004.

Delivery Timescale:
Commenced 2 April 2024

Additional evening journeys on 103 - Kirton in Lindsey

Kirton in Lindsey has a population of 2,800. The lack of evening services to Kirton in Lindsey in the past limited the ability of the bus service to support the leisure & retail quarter within the town centre. Therefore additional evening journeys have been added: Additional teatime service Monday to Saturday on 103 to Kirton at 18:00 and return at 18:30. Extra Friday and Saturday service to Kirton at 21:30 and return at 22:00.

Interventions:

More comprehensive and Innovative
Most bus services in North Lincolnshire ceased early evening therefore restricting travel for those residents living in Rural locations. These improved connections will enable residents improved access to evening leisure activities and will ensure residents have connections to larger population centres. It is hoped these options will reduce rural social isolation and increase rural mobility.

Outcomes – Going forward it is hoped the scheme will increase rural mobility. The new timetabled services provide improved access to health facilities, leisure centres and shopping facilities ensuring residents have connections to larger population centres and evening leisure activities and therefore facilitate economic growth by targeting transport improvements in key development areas and provide equal opportunities through improvements in accessibility to key local hubs and services by sustainable modes of transport.

Passenger data:
Number of passengers during the most recent 2 months of operation is 352 (6pm service and return) and 212 (Friday and Saturday evening).

Delivery Timescale:
Commenced 2 April 2024

Additional teatime journey on service 357 from Doncaster

The additional service runs at teatime from Doncaster to the Isle of Axholme on the 17:39 journey and return via the same route as the morning one. Running time approx. 75 mins Monday to Saturday.

Interventions:

Innovative and more comprehensive
There is currently no 5.30pm journey from Doncaster to the Isle of Axholme. This will incorporate the following locations: Westwoodside, Haxey and Epworth. These improved connections will enable residents improved access to employment opportunities and will ensure residents have connections to larger population centres. It is hoped these options will reduce rural social isolation and increase rural mobility. Study undertaken to identify gaps in service delivery.

Outcomes – The intention of the scheme is to help combat rural insolation and increase rural mobility. The new route will provide improved access to employment, health facilities, leisure centres and shopping facilities. The timetabled services ensure residents have connections to larger population centres.

Passenger data:
Passenger numbers for the most recent two months of operation were 177.

Delivery Timescale
Commenced 8 April 2024

Provision of new 260 service on a Saturday

The purpose of this project is to add a Saturday journey to Service 260 between Immingham and Barton to mirror the service which had been approved for Mondays to Fridays, providing residents in these villages with increased choice when it comes to Public Transport.

Interventions:

Innovative and more comprehensive
This will offer increased connectivity between North East Lincolnshire and North Lincolnshire on a Saturday. Residents of South Killingholme, North Killingholme and East Halton will be able to travel to both Immingham and Barton on Saturdays. Further connections will be available in both towns to larger settlements e.g. Hull and Grimsby.

Outcomes – These enhanced connections will enable residents to attend health appointments, go shopping and have independence. It is hoped these options will reduce rural social isolation and increase rural mobility. The service will facilitate economic growth by targeting transport improvements in key development areas and along key strategic network corridors.

Passenger data:
Number of passengers during the final two months of operation was 284.

Delivery Timescale
Commenced 11 May 2024

Extension of Service 4 to Normanby Hall Tourist and Country Park on a Saturday

Normanby Hall is one of North Lincolnshire’s largest assets which previously had no direct bus service. The extension of service 4 will include journeys to Normanby Hall from 1 April to 31 October on Saturdays only. The new timetable also connects Normanby Hall with Brigg and villages connected by the Saturday c4 service.

Interventions:

Innovative and more comprehensive
A study identified gaps in fixed routes. The new service would enable bus users to visit one of North Lincolnshire’s largest tourism assets at a weekend.

Outcomes – The service will introduce a public transport offer to North Lincolnshire’s largest tourist attraction and will bring people in from Brigg, Broughton, Timberlands, and Ashby. Service 4 connects at Brigg with service c4 so gives options for people from other places to visit Normanby Hall. The new service encourages attendance at events at the Hall on Saturdays. It is hoped the bus service will encourage a decline in the number of cars travelling there and enable increased access for younger people to travel to the Country Park and Go Ape.

Passenger Data:
Number of passengers during the most recent 2 months of operation is 39.

Delivery Timescale
Commenced 30 March 2024

Provision of service 7 and 8 on Sundays

It was identified that residents living on routes 7 and 8 had no access to public transport on Sundays. The provision of service 7 and 8 on Sundays fills the gaps and provides a continued approach to services 7 and 8 which runs Monday to Saturday and includes stops at Scunthorpe General Hospital and Skippingdale Retail Park.

Intervention:

Innovative and more comprehensive
The new Sunday service will complement the service which runs on Mondays to Saturdays.

Outcomes – An extension to the service offers bus users the option to travel between Scunthorpe bus station and Skippingdale Retail Park, stopping at Scunthorpe General Hospital on a Sunday. These improved connections enable residents to visit friends, take part in leisure activities, attend health appointments, visit friends and relatives in Scunthorpe hospital, go shopping and have independence.

Passenger Data:
Number of passengers during the most recent 2 months of operation is 138.

Delivery Timescale
Commenced 5 May 2024

Provision of service 6 on Sundays across Scunthorpe and Ashby

We identified that residents living on routes 6 had no access to public transport on Sundays. The provision of service 6 on Sundays fills the gaps and the route is co-ordinated between services 350 and 4.

The new service 6 will run hourly on Sundays and Bank Holidays. The timetable commences at 09:00 from Scunthorpe Bus Station. The last bus will be at 17:00.

Intervention:

Innovative and more comprehensive
The new Sunday service will complement the service which runs on Mondays to Saturdays.

Outcomes – Running the service ensures a regular service across Scunthorpe to Ashby enhancing Scunthorpe’s key corridor along Ashby Road and Ashby High Street on a Sunday. These improved connections enable residents to visit friends, take part in leisure activities, attend health appointments, go shopping and have independence by facilitating growth by targeting transport improvements in key development areas and along key strategic network corridors.

Passenger Data:
Number of passengers during the most recent 2 months of operation is 901.

Delivery Timescale
Commenced 5 May 2024

X4 service between Scunthorpe and Brigg

The x4 service operates between Scunthorpe and Brigg, halving journey times between these two key destinations. This service also runs through Scawby and Greetwell, who previously had no service provision.

Intervention:

Faster connections between Scunthorpe and Brigg, with the service connecting Scawby and Greetwell to the network.

Outcomes:

This service provides Scawby and Greetwell with a scheduled bus service. Residents in these areas are now able to access education, employment, medical and leisure provisions in two of North Lincolnshire’s biggest settlements. The service provides equal opportunities for residents here, who are now connected to the network.

Passenger data– Number of passengers during the most recent 2 months of operation is 1600.

Delivery timescale– Commenced 1st January 2025

New Real Time Information (RTI) displays

49 Real Time Information (RTI) displays have been installed across North Lincolnshire, giving travellers up to date information about their bus.
Intervention- North Lincolnshire Council are constantly looking for ways to improve the passenger experience when travelling via bus, with the RTI displays one such way of doing so. The boards tell passengers the status of their bus, the number and the end destination, so passengers are fully aware of any updates.

Outcome:

The boards provide real time updates about buses stopping at each bus stop, so passengers are kept abreast of any delays or cancellations. The displays make travelling via bus a more straightforward experience, as any ambiguity is removed whilst waiting.

Delivery timescale:

Displays installed gradually throughout 2025.

Funding source and allocation by Year (£) Phase 2 2023/2024 Phase 2 2024/2025 Phase 3
2024/25		 Phase 1
2025/26
BSIP+ Funding £547,379 £547,379 £965,000 £2,908,248

Operator Commitment

North Lincolnshire Council, Stagecoach East Midlands, Hornsby Travel and East Yorkshire Buses have committed to provide data as required to evidence the impact of the new schemes implemented. Through bus passenger surveys and ticket sales data we will be able to establish whether each service is meeting the needs of the public. Punctuality data will provide information on pinch points where improvements to infrastructure should be made. The operators have signed the bus passenger charter which also commits to provide routes to key communities, fair and transparent ticketing and to ensure passengers travel in comfort and safety on reliable services which are accessible to everyone.

Bus Driver Recruitment and Retention

LTAs and Bus operators have taken steps to advertise for bus drivers and other key staff shortages, by working with DWP and Job Centres to recruit and train staff. North Lincolnshire Council run an annual jobs fair which can be utilised by operators to support recruitment.

Allocation of BSIP+ funding so far

Allocation of BSIP+ funding so far
Funding source and allocation by Year (£) Phase 2 2023/2024 Phase 2 2024/2025 Phase 3
2024/25
BSIP+ Funding £547,379 £547,379 £965,000

5. Ambitions and proposals for 2025 and beyond

This section sets out the proposals and actions which will collectively deliver the overall vision to transform bus services in North Lincolnshire. For each proposal, individual actions have been identified to contribute towards the objective, alongside an analysis of the existing situation which the proposal seeks to enhance. The proposals have been aligned with the key objectives of the National Bus Strategy.

The delivery of the action plan set out below is subject to the availability of future funding. Each of the individual elements of the action plan have been developed with the view to being financially sustainable in the mid-term, however in some instances this will require capital funding for the delivery of actions such as bus priority measures, bus station improvements, introduction of a transport hub, improved waiting and wayfinding facilities as well as improvements to bus fleets.

All the proposals will deliver operational efficiencies, alongside revenue funding to pump-prime service enhancements to enable a passenger base to be established and embed bus travel choices in the short-term.

This approach will provide time for the priority measures to be implemented and passenger numbers to grow, with the view to enabling services to be run commercially after this initial period. The proposals and actions have been developed by North Lincolnshire Council working in partnership with local operators and taking account of feedback from passengers and other key stakeholders.

Short-Term and Long-Term ambitions for North Lincolnshire 2025 – 2035

Short-Term Ambitions for Projects Requiring Revenue Funding

We aim to maintain current bus service levels and continue to run services 7 days a week. We hope to grow the market by increasing frequency, creating new and extending existing services, with emphasis on more evening and weekend journeys.

Service number Current frequency Monday to Friday Current frequency Saturday Current frequency Sunday
DRT service Bookable Bookable No service
1/2 Half Hourly Half Hourly Hourly
1A/2A Hourly Hourly Hourly
3 Hourly Hourly No service
4 Hourly Hourly Every two hours
C4 No service Every two hours No service
X4 Every 2 hours One journey each direction No service
6 Every 30 minutes Every 30 minutes Hourly
7 Hourly Hourly Every two hours
8 Hourly Hourly Every two hours
10 One journey per day No service No service
12 Hourly Hourly No service
35 Hourly Hourly No service
60 Every two hours Every two hours No service
90 Every two hours Every three hours No service
91 Six times a day Tuesdays and Thursdays Five journeys per day No service
92 Five journeys per day Tuesdays and Thursdays Five journeys per day No service
93 Three journeys per day Tuesdays and Thursdays Three journeys per day No service
94 Every two hours No service No service
96 Roughly every 2 hours No service No service
97/97A Roughly every 2 hours No service No service
100/101 Hourly Hourly No service
103 Every two hours Every two hours No service
250 Hourly Hourly Every two hours
254 Hourly between 0915 and 1415 on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. No service No service
260 Every two hours Every two hours No service
350/355 Half hourly Half hourly Every two hours
360 Twice per day No service No service
361 Three times a day Three times a day Three times a day
357 Three times a day Three times a day No service
398 One journey per day Tuesdays and Fridays No service No service
399 Every two hours Every three hours No service

We plan to continually monitor these services via operator feedback and passenger surveys. With the support from a combination of government and LTA funding it is hoped the new services implemented over the past year may become commercially viable in the future.

Support for Access to Work

With North Lincolnshire having a significant proportion of people who work shifts, we would like to effectively support access to work. This would include implementing new and extending existing services to key employers.

Fig 8: Map of major employers in North Lincolnshire

Map of employers in North Lincolnshire

The largest industry sectors for employment in North Lincolnshire, both employing 23% of employees (17,000), are the Public Administration, Education and Health and Manufacturing Sectors.

The Public Administration, Education and Health Sector is also the largest regionally and nationally at 27.9% and 25.4% respectively. It is not equivalent to the Public Sector as it does not include various publicly owned corporations and bodies but does include private sector health and education. The Manufacturing sector is a significant major employer in North Lincolnshire, employing 17,000 residents, a rate of 23.0%, outperforming the regional and national rates of 11.3% and 7.9%.

The key areas emerging from the new North Lincolnshire’s Local Plan looking to create employment growth are:

  • Normanby Enterprise Park
  • Scunthorpe land North of Tesco
  • Humberside Airport
  • Sandtoft Business Park
  • Barton interchange Land to the north west of the A15
  • Land to the south of Barnetby Top Interchange and to the east of the A18
  • Land to the south of Crowle gyratory.

The spatial vision, objectives and development needs for North Lincolnshire will be delivered through the spatial strategy of the local plan. The spatial strategy will deliver growth in a sustainable and balanced manner that meet the area’s objectively assessed needs for new homes, jobs and infrastructure, whilst ensuring the natural and built environment is protected and enhanced.

The spatial strategy for North Lincolnshire will:

  • Deliver at least 7128 new homes (396 dwellings per annum) to meet the needs of the existing and future population in sustainable and balanced communities.
  • Support the creation of 11,500 new jobs in our priority sectors and encouraging innovation.
  • Develop at least 131.7ha of employment land in key locations that supports the delivery of housing and meets the requirements of the commercial property market. Amongst these areas are South Humber Gateway; Scunthorpe; Humberside Airport; and strategic locations on Transport Corridors.
  • Deliver and support the regeneration, enhancement and diversification of the area’s town, district and local centres as key hubs for retail, leisure and services for our communities.
  • Ensure the delivery of sufficient physical, social and environmental infrastructure to support the area’s ambitions for housing and economic growth and meet identified needs.
  • Support thriving rural communities and a vibrant countryside through the protection and enhancement of local services, creating opportunities for rural economic diversification and the promotion of tourism.
  • Support the protection and enhancement of the area’s world-class natural and built environment to ensure its continued attractiveness, securing nature’s recovery and enabling safe environments and communities.
  • Support and develop North Lincolnshire’s visitor economy and make it a destination of choice.

(Please note the new North Lincolnshire Local Plan is unadopted and currently at Examination in Public and maybe subject to change. If this is the case this document will be updated accordingly)

Enhance provision of services to / from hospitals and rail connections

Subject to funding, we would seek to deliver improved connections between, Scunthorpe railway station, Scunthorpe bus station and Scunthorpe hospital as well as other health facilities within the town boundary.

Parking at Scunthorpe Hospital is very limited. We would therefore like to explore the possibility of reintroducing the park and ride to the hospital from Scunthorpe Bus Station via Scunthorpe Rail Station, providing better connections for staff, patients and visitors. The service would run every 30 minutes.

Target Punctuality and Reliability Performance Indicators

Our target for punctuality is 95%, in line with the traffic commissioner’s target. Unfortunately, due to North Lincolnshire being extremely rural, the road network often impacts punctuality. Road works can cause a significant diversion for all our services which can severely impact punctuality, which is a limiting factor to achieving the 95% target. Operators send us their punctuality data quarterly. This shows buses have a consistently good record for leaving origin points on time and we will continue to collect data to establish any required improvements.

Figure 9: North Lincolnshire Council PIP Survey Summary, Cumulative 2024/25 (Stagecoach data only)

Figure 9: North Lincolnshire Council PIP Survey Summary, Cumulative 2024/25 (Stagecoach data only)

Improvements to fares and ticketing

In January 2023 the government introduced the £2 fare cap to help grow patronage in all places across England outside of London. However, on January 1st 2025, the £2 fare cap was increased to £3. Since introducing the fare cap, patronage is continuing to grow. Operators currently offer a wide range of tickets and by providing affordable flat fares, which are simpler to understand, we aim to continue to attract more bus passengers, which will help investment in town centres, will combat social inclusion and invest in a greener future.

We have recently agreed to offer:

  • Reduced fares for young people – reduced bus travel for young people aged 5 -19 years during North Lincolnshire school holidays.

Inter ticketing between operators The purpose of integrated ticketing is to encourage people to use public transport by simplifying switching between transport and by increasing the efficiency of the services.

The three main operators within North Lincolnshire already run integrated ticketing schemes on key routes. It is our intention that all services offer integrated ticketing.

Long-Term Ambitions for Projects Requiring Revenue Funding

We will continue to maintain the current bus services levels and eventually develop increased frequency on key corridors.

Short Term Ambitions for Projects Requiring Capital Funding

Bus Priority

It is recognised that to increase bus use, buses must become an attractive alternative to the car for far more people. The key to doing this is to make them faster and more reliable. We aim to reduce journey times and increase reliability, in order to encourage modal shift:

Enable and support passenger access to the bus stops

We will ensure passengers can walk or wheel to and from a bus stop safely and comfortably, and cross the road easily and safely.

Provide a safe, comfortable and accessible bus stops

We aim to ensure that bus stops will provide a safe location both from a road safety and personal safety perspective with adequate space available for passengers to wait. Passengers should be protected from the elements with seating and have access to up-to-date bus service information. Raised kerbs will enable the bus to safely stop adjacent to the kerb with minimal step height or gap between the vehicle and the kerb, with sufficient space for a wheelchair ramp or lift to be deployed. The bus should be able to re-enter the traffic stream with minimal delay. Bus stops will be clearly marked.

Minimise interruptions and delay along a route

Reducing the time and number of delays caused by interactions with other vehicles or features along the bus route will provide free flow movement. We will work with bus operators to identify and address obstacles which could delay buses.

Give the bus vehicle priority

An Enhanced Partnership Sub-Group has been set up made up of NLC transport and highways staff and local bus operators. The Group discuss bus priority, any new road improvement schemes and priorities for improving interchanges, focusing on the objectives sought and the types of measures and changes that will achieve them, whilst also considering the impacts on other road users and local businesses. Objectives will generally include:

  • Fast or delay-free journey time
  • Reliable or consistent journey times
  • Increased patronage and passenger use
  • Buses as an attractive and accessible choice for passengers
  • A genuine alternative to private vehicles

At  present we only have 1 bus lane along the main corridor in Scunthorpe. At present there are no plans to expand the bus lane network. North Lincolnshire will be prioritising alternative direct and indirect bus priority measures as laid out in the Government bus user priority guidance.

Support reliability

As North Lincolnshire is a mostly rural area, congestion typically occurs within Scunthorpe (the urban centre of North Lincolnshire). Discussions with operators have indicated that there are a number of key congestion hotspots / pinchpoints within the town. The primary junctions where bus journey time reliability is affected in North Lincolnshire are:

  • Britannia Corner – Doncaster Road / Oswald Road / High Street
  • Berkley Circle – A18 / Doncaster Road / Scotter Road
  • Ashby Ville Roundabout – A18 / Brigg Road / Wisteria Way
  • Ferry Road / Frodingham Road / Old Crosby
  • Scotter Road – Bristol Road Junction
  • Scotter Road – Minster Road Junction

Our plan to develop 6,600 new homes on the western fringe of the Scunthorpe urban area, known as Lincolnshire Lakes shows the high level vision for the development which includes plans for significant alterations to the highway network. The introduction of this development and its associated highway works will present opportunities to review transport in the area and has the potential to help relieve congestion on the Scotter Road corridor. It is therefore essential that public transport considerations are included in future planning.

Provide accessible information

We aim to provide audible and visual route information as well as real time service information, using mobile apps to provide ticket and fare information and payment methods which are all important elements of encouraging greater bus use.

Cashless ticketing

We encourage contactless payments for customers when boarding the bus which offers the passenger choice and helps to reduce boarding times.

Improved bus stops and interchanges

BSIP funds have been utilised to enable a full audit of bus stops and shelters and identify costs for any capital investment to ensure bus infrastructure meets customer’s needs and expectations.

A programme of upgrading will be implemented to deliver the high standards we expect for our bus infrastructure which will include replacing some of the existing shelters, installing realtime information and ensuring all bus stops are accessible, clean, well lit and covered by new or existing CCTV.

NLC keep an inventory of all bus stops which we will continue to monitor to ensure the high standard set is maintained.

Outcome: Consistently maintained and safe infrastructure which meet customer’s needs will hopefully encourage residents to use public transport services.

Regeneration of Town Centre and Improvement to Scunthorpe Bus Station

Our intent is for a thriving town centre established as a quality centre for learning, living, leisure and business. Enhanced market towns and wider rural areas provide a significant quality of life offer, attracting and retaining a thriving working age population and creating high value employment opportunities for all. Scunthorpe bus station is in-need of modernisation to become an attractive gateway to the town centre.

The bus station is in a good location, located close to the town centre retail offer, particularly the Parishes Shopping Centre, Vue Cinema and the new health diagnostic centre. However, the facility itself is outdated, unattractive and exposed, creating an unpleasant waiting environment for passengers as well as an unattractive gateway to Scunthorpe for visitors.

The bus station does not have any public toilets, with the nearest toilets being in Scunthorpe Market which is adjacent to the bus station which are only open 8am to 4pm Tuesday to Saturday.

Capital funding is needed to address these issues and improve the quality of the bus station by installing:

  • Comprehensive CCTV coverage
  • Installation of toilets
  • Sheltered passenger waiting facility
  • Lighting and full accessibility
  • Realtime at each stand

Outcome: Improve the perception of bus services. Providing a welcoming environment can attract riders and create a pleasant experience which is critical to increasing use. If people feel comfortable at a station, they are more likely not to use an alternative mode of transportation. Creating a welcoming environment can attract riders and create a pleasant experience.

Improved waiting facilities at Scunthorpe rail station and at Ashby Road

Outside of the rail station there is a single bus shelter which is served by a limited number of bus services. The main bus routes operate along Ashby Road, approximately 180m west of the rail station. There are bus shelters located on both sides of the road. We therefore aim to improve the quality of bus passenger waiting facilities at Scunthorpe rail station and on Ashby Road by exploring the following:

  • Provision of real-time bus information at the bus shelters
  • Improve quality of bus shelters
  • Provision of CCTV

Outcome: If the waiting facilities are made more attractive to passengers it may be possible to increase demand for bus services from the rail station.

Improve wayfinding and access between the bus station and the rail station

The rail station is located approximately a 12 minute walk from the bus station via main roads with limited pedestrian priority. We feel it important to improve wayfinding and access between the bus station and the rail station to ensure use of both modes within Scunthorpe feels integrated, simple and convenient.

Outcome: To ensure better integration and encourage increased patronage.

Improved bus information and network identity

We will work with bus operators to ensure bus information is clear and precise and is easily accessible to all bus passengers.

Following the bus stop audit we hope to install solar panels on all suitable shelters across North Lincolnshire to enable real-time information to be installed showing up-to-date and accurate timetable information. Journey times and delays will also be accessible via Traveline website and on operator’s websites. NLC continues to provide Traveline with a weekly upload of bus data.

Operators are limited to 3 changes a year unless there are exceptional circumstances.

We strive to capture new passengers by promoting bus offers with regular press releases and on social media, such as free bus travel for children in the school holidays to leisure facilities. We have recently implemented a bus service to our largest tourist attraction at Normanby Hall. Bus operators promote services on their web page and on social media.

Although the local buses are clearly numbered, for ease of identification, we will work with operators to try to simplify the current numbering system.

Outcome: Delivering accurate and timely information, will improve passenger confidence through better information and boost passenger trust. Reliability will dictate whether passengers will feel confident enough to give up their cars for public transport options.

Long-Term Ambitions for Projects Requiring Capital Funding

Transport Hubs

The implementation of Transport Hubs in rural areas of North Lincolnshire has been discussed at our Enhanced Partnership Board. Ideally these enhanced stops would be located close to public places such as shops to encourage informal surveillance and improve safety for the passenger. Consultation to take place with Town and Parish Councils.

Hubs will offer a better deal for commercial operators by preventing the DRT abstracting trips from fixed routes whilst also encouraging new passengers to use commercial services from more rural areas. They will deliver an improved passenger experience, while encouraging sustainable modes of travel, and creating a more attractive, welcoming experience into the town. Hubs could include:

  • Cycle parking for electric and standard cycles
  • Bus shelter with seating
  • Real Time Passenger Information
  • Electric vehicle charging bays
  • Disabled parking bays
  • Parent and child parking bay
  • Motorcycle parking bays
  • Provision of standard parking spaces
  • Fully accessible toilet.

Figure 11: Artist impression of the proposed Mobility Hub in Barton upon Humber

Artists impression of Mobility Hub Barton

Outcome: The Hubs could offer bus interchanges, cycle parking and recycling, enabling integration between scheduled services and DRT, therefore offering a better experience for passengers by reducing the amount of time spent routing via waypoints on the DRT service. Identifying fixed interchange points will also ensure that investment in waiting facilities can be more easily directed and ensure that passengers are not dropped off from the DRT service at isolated rural locations.

Improvements to the bus fleet

The Enhanced Partnership bus passenger charter commits to continued improvements of bus fleet to ensure an improved passenger experience. Operators continue to invest in passenger safety through installation and upgrades to CCTV and audio visual announcements on their bus fleets.

In relation to converting bus fleets to electric vehicles, the biggest challenge is the installation of power infrastructure and charging points to enable an efficient and uninterrupted service. The redevelopment of Scunthorpe Bus Station and transport hubs across the area will provide the initial infrastructure required to allow bus operators to invest in electric buses in the future. External funds will be required to achieve this overall outcome, working in partnership with service providers.

The route between Scunthorpe and Hull (operated by Stagecoach) has the highest quality interior of the scheduled services with leather seats and USB charging points, the vehicles also meet Euro 6 emissions standards.

The JustGo DRT fleet of six 17-seater minibuses also meets Euro 6 emissions standards and have free WiFi, USB charging and leather seats, they also meet Euro 6 emissions standards. Our ambition is that this level of quality demonstrated by these fleets should become standard for bus travel in North Lincolnshire.

Outcome: To work towards 25% of fleet being electric by 2035. Our intention is to have thriving businesses and communities with significantly reduced levels of greenhouse gases. Advanced progress towards sustainable energy for all coupled with energy efficiency improvements and an increase in green energy jobs delivering on the UK’s net zero target.

Benefits of electric buses over Diesel buses

  • Lower emissions, which is better for the environment and air quality in our cities.
  • Noise reduction and increased comfort for passengers.
  • Reduced maintenance costs.
  • Lower running costs.

6. Targets, performance monitoring and reporting

Local Bus Network

Bus passengers across North Lincolnshire can expect a safe, comfortable, connected, and high-quality journey and experience across the local bus network, no matter which bus service they are travelling on. All our passengers should be able to plan their journey with confidence, enjoy a safe and comfortable waiting environment, and trust the bus will turn up and arrive at their destination on time. All locally registered bus services provided by operators across the network, including any services operated on a flexible or on-demand basis, are covered by the Bus Passenger Charter, which is reviewed each year to ensure it remains in line with current legislation and passenger expectations.

Targets for bus speed, punctuality and reliability improvements

Target Punctuality and Reliability Performance Indicators
Outcomes Actual
2018/19		 Actual
2019/20		 Target
2024/25		 Actual
2024/25		 Target
2029/30		 How will this be calculated?
Punctuality for all bus routes in North Lincolnshire 87% TBC 90% 79% 95% Data from operators on punctuality in North Lincolnshire as reported to DfT under Table BUS0902
Reliability of services is determined using a metric called “lost kilometre rate (%)” no data 99.8% 95% unavailable 99.8% Lost km rate (%)
(total scheduled services less total services operated divided by total scheduled services x 100)
Satisfaction with reliability n/a 49%* (2021) 85% 55% 95% Measured via annual bus passenger survey (National Transport and Network).
Average journey times for two busiest routes (1 and 6) no data 26.75 mins 25.41 mins currently unavailable 24.08 mins Data provided by operators
for route 1 and 6.
Percentage of journeys on time (origins) n/a 90.6% 95% 86.9% 95% Actual figures from operators
Percentage of journeys on time (origins and intermediates) no data 76.9% 85% 79.3% 92% Actual figures based on Stagecoach only.
Percentage of journeys more than 59 seconds late at mid-point n/a n/a 10% 64.1% 5% Combined figures will be automatically available from the ABOD (Analyse Bus Open Data) service
Vehicle Km on local bus services per year 3.72m 3.91m 4m 4.5m Dft bus statistics data Table BUS02

* We recognise that this figure is significantly lower than data available through Transport Focus which specialises on bus passenger data. We are currently unable to access this information but we will endeavour to use this more accurate data going forward.

In significant parts of our Council area, congestion is quite limited and therefore reliability should be high and journey times attractive. However, our operators have highlighted a number of hotspots in the Scunthorpe urban area which may lead to punctuality and reliability issues. We have set up an Enhanced Partnership sub group who will identify the scale and extent of these issues and determine the most appropriate interventions.

The group discuss bus priority, any new road improvement schemes and priorities for improving interchanges, focusing on the objectives sought and the types of measures and changes that will achieve them, whilst also considering the impacts on other road users and local businesses. We also propose to encourage as many passengers as possible to use cashless transactions to reduce boarding times and accelerate journeys. We have established ambitious targets to improve reliability, particularly in Scunthorpe where we anticipate the greatest improvements are achievable.

Targets for passenger patronage growth and customer satisfaction

Growing bus patronage in North Lincolnshire must be economically sustainable. Our plans are intended to underpin the existing commercial sector and help to “kick start” enhancements.

It is important to see our ambitions in the context of longer-term trends in North Lincolnshire. Over the last 10 years bus patronage has declined steeply in the area, and we want to be realistic about how long it may take to reverse the trend. In addition, the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic meant that patronage for our local operators fell by 50% between 2019 and 2020. We are therefore targeting a return to 2017/18 levels by 2029/30.

Passenger Satisfaction Indicators
North Lincolnshire Council takes part in the annual national highways & transport network survey. This survey collects the public’s views on various aspects of transport in local authority areas and includes specific questions regarding local bus services. The table below shows the satisfaction results from this survey and our targets for the future. Appendix B shows graphs relating to the survey.

 

Performance Measures 2022
North Lincs
%		 2023
North Lincs
%		 2023
UK Average
%		 2023 Gap
Between NLC and UK Average		 Target for
2024/25		 2024 North Lincs %
Frequency of bus services 46 50 51 -1 60 52
Number of bus stops 62 62 64 -2 75 63
The state of bus stops 52 55 54 1 70 54
Whether buses arrive on time 49 51 48 3 60 58
How easy buses are to get on/off 65 68 69 -1 75 70
The local bus service overall 50 54 54 0 60 55
Bus fares 47 56 54 2 65 64
Quality and cleanliness of buses 60 64 61 3 70 62
Helpfulness of drivers 66 67 66 1 75 69
Personal safety on the bus 66 66 65 1 70 65
Personal safety at bus stops 58 61 60 1 70 62
Raised kerbs at bus stops 62 65 63 2 75 64
The amount of information 44 48 50 -2 65 47
The clarity of information 45 49 51 -2 60 50
The accuracy of information 46 51 51 0 65 52
Ease of finding the right information 42 47 48 -1 60 46
Information about accessible buses 40 46 46 0 60 46
Info to help people plan journeys 44 50 53 -3 65 49
Provision of public transport information 42 46 49 -3 65 47
Provision of bus stops 84 86 85 1 90 85

 

Target improvements to encourage passenger usage

  • Enhanced programme of maintenance e.g. bus cleaning, bus station
  • Better waiting facilities e.g. provide shelters, improved lighting and seating
  • Better transport information e.g. real time at key stops
  • Fares should be simpler and provide good value for money
  • Increase rural routes
  • Improved reliability
  • Ensure raised kerbs
  • Provision of new buses
  • Align bus services to shift patterns
  • Inter-connectivity with rail services.

Targets for North Lincolnshire bus passenger growth

Graph showing the number of bus passengers increasing slowly since the pandemic

Whilst there are signs of recovery in terms of bus passenger numbers since the pandemic, the level of journeys is still considerably lower than pre-pandemic levels.

Bus passenger numbers in North Lincolnshire 2014 – 2025
2014/15 2015/16 2016/17 2017/18 2018/19 2019/20 2020/21
3,883,037 3,102,461 3,293,803 3,045,615 2,916,212 2,704,876 935,294

 

Bus passenger numbers in North Lincolnshire 2014 – 2025
2021/22 2022/23 2023/24 2024/25 Target for 2029/30
1,617,204 1,751,958 1,947,436 2,065,036 2,922,000

Targets for network coverage accessibility to services

Full details of targets for network coverage can be found on pages 27 and 28 of this document and also at Appendix A.

Performance Monitoring and Reporting

We will undertake quarterly monitoring on the targets set which will be reported to the Enhanced Partnership Board. We will provide a highlight report which will identify progress towards key performance indicators and any narrative explaining any variances and remedial actions required. An annual monitoring report will be submitted to DfT as part of the bus connectivity assessment process.

A financial monitoring system is in place that the service providers have agreed to which will comprehensively monitor financial and service performance.

Non compliance by service providers must be reported to DfT under the terms of the agreement.

.

Bus Connectivity Assessments (BCAs)

In Spring 2024, the Government asked all Local Transport Authorities to submit bus connectivity assessments (BCAs). BCAs will complement the 2024 BSIP and are a monitoring process to identify the best bus network to meet bus connectivity objectives for the local transport authority.

The exercise is designed to support the LTA with identifying the best bus network available at varying levels of funding (including more and less than is currently available), plus informing future Government decisions on bus interventions. These activities will also provide evidence for and feed into the LTA’s local transport plan. We will therefore complete the BCA’s annually and report on a range of issues including:

  • Connectivity:
    • Assessment of the connections of the LTA’s bus network between employment, leisure, services and residential locations, and the costs associated with maintaining and improving that connectivity.
  • Patronage:
    • Actions taken to grow patronage.
  • Types of Service:
    • Percentage and cost of tendered services, numbers of zero-emission buses, DRT services.
  • Innovation:
    • innovative approaches to growing revenue.
  • Funding:
    • Annual transport budget and use of specific grants.

7.0 APPENDICES

Appendix A: Details of all bus routes running across North Lincolnshire

1) Bus routes in North Lincolnshire operated by Stagecoach East Midlands

Service Number Route Frequency Monday to Friday Frequency Saturday Frequency Sunday Key Facilities
1/1A

1-Commercial service with de minimis

1A – Tendered service

 Scunthorpe Bus Station

Scunthorpe General Hospital

Gallagher Retail Park

Ashby Lakeside Retail Park and Morrisons

Scunthorpe Bus Station

 Route 1 half hourly (daytime hours)

Route 1A hourly (evening services)

 Route 1 half hourly (daytime hours)

Route 1A hourly (evening services)

 Hourly Health care facilities, place of worship, leisure facilities, commuter service, retail facilities, socialise, place of study
3
Commercial service with de minimis		 Scunthorpe Bus Station

John Leggott Sixth Form College

Quebec Road

Ashby Retail High Street

Scunthorpe Bus Station

 Hourly Hourly No service Health care facilities, place of worship, leisure facilities, commuter service, retail facilities, socialise, place of study
4 *
Tendered service* Operated jointly with Hornsby		 Scunthorpe Bus Station

Lakeside Retail Park

Broughton

Brigg

 Operated by Hornsby Travel Operated by Hornsby Travel Every two hours Health care facilities, place of worship, leisure facilities, commuter service, retail facilities, socialise, place of study
6 *
Commercial service		 Scunthorpe Bus Station

Priory Hotel

Sunshine Hall

Grange Lane South

Ashby Road

Scunthorpe Bus Station

 Every 30 minutes Every 30 minutes Hourly

(Tendered)

 Health care facilities, place of worship, leisure facilities, commuter service, retail facilities, socialise, place of study
7
Commercial service with de minimis		 Scunthorpe Bus Station

Scunthorpe Hospital

Berkeley Estate

Skippingdale Retail Park

 Hourly Hourly Every two hours (Tendered) Health care facilities, place of worship, leisure facilities, commuter service, retail facilities, socialise, place of study
8
Commercial service		 Scunthorpe Bus Station

Scunthorpe Hospital

Avenue Vivian

Skippingdale Retail Park

 Hourly Hourly Every two hours (Tendered) Health care facilities, place of worship, leisure facilities, commuter service, retail facilities, socialise, place of study
100/101
Commercial service		 Scunthorpe Bus Station

Ashby High Street

Messingham

Scotter

Northorpe

Gainsborough Bus Station

Lincoln Bus Station

 Hourly Hourly No service Health care facilities, place of worship, leisure facilities, commuter service, retail facilities, socialise, place of study, cross county
103
Commercial service with de minimis		 Scunthorpe Bus Station

Messingham

Kirton in Lindsey

Blyborough

Hemswell

RAF Scampton

Lincoln Bus Station

 Every two hours Every two hours No service Health care facilities,  commuter service, socialise, retail facilities,  train station, place of study, leisure facilities
250
Commercial service		 Louth

Holton le Clay

Grimsby Interchange

Laceby

Ulceby

Barrow

Barton upon Humber

Hull

 Hourly Hourly Every two hours Health care facilities, place of worship, commuter service, socialise, retail facilities, place of study, leisure facilities
255
Commercial service		 Barton upon Humber Wren Kitchens

Hull Interchange

 Variation runs throughout the day to match shift patterns. No Service No Service Health care facilities, place of worship, commuter service, retail facilities, train station
350/355
Commercial service with de minimis		 Scunthorpe Bus Station

Winterton

South Ferriby

Barton upon Humber

Humber Bridge

Hull Interchange

 Half hourly Half hourly Every two hours Health care facilities, place of worship, commuter service,  retail facilities, place of study, train station, cross county
399 *
Tendered service* Operated jointly with Hornsby		 Scunthorpe Bus Station

Gallagher Retail Park

Althorpe

West Butterwick

Beltoft

Belton

Epworth

Owston Ferry

Haxey

Westwoodside

Doncaster

 Evening only Five times a day No Service Health care facilities, place of worship, leisure facilities, commuter service, retail facilities, socialise, place of study, cross county, train station
10
Tendered service		 Scunthorpe Bus Station

Ashfield Caravan Park

Parklands Caravan Park

Burringham

 Three times a day No service No service Health care facilities, leisure facilities, retail facilities, socialise, train station, place of study
35
Tendered service		 Scunthorpe Bus Station

Doncaster Road

Gallagher Retail Park

Gunness

Keadby

Amcotts

 Hourly Hourly No service Health care facilities, retail facilities, socialise, train station, place of study
90
Tendered service		 Scunthorpe Bus Station

Scunthorpe General Hospital

Gallagher Retail

Gunness

Ealand

Crowle

Eastoft

 Every two hours Every three hours No service Health care facilities, retail facilities, socialise, train station, place of study, place of worship, commuter service

In addition to the regular services described above, Stagecoach also operates the following:

  • Service 11
    Operates between Scunthorpe Bus Station, Lichfield Ave, Chancel Rd, Ashby High St Market, Ashby Turn, Scunthorpe Bus Station, twice per day at 06:25 and 07:05, Monday and Saturday.
  • Service 398
    Operates once per day on Tuesdays and Fridays between Belton and Gainsborough

Full details of Stagecoach services are provided on the Stagecoach website.

2) Services in North Lincolnshire operated by Hornsby Travel

Service Number Route Frequency Monday to Friday Frequency Saturday Frequency Sunday Key Facilities
4 *
Commercial service with some de minimis* Operated jointly with Stagecoach		 Scunthorpe Bus Station

Ashby High Street

Lakeside Retail Park

Broughton

Brigg, Wrawby

Barnetby

Humberside Airport

Kirmington

 Hourly Hourly Operated by Stagecoach East Midlands
to Brigg only		 Health care facilities, place of worship, leisure facilities, commuter service, retail facilities, socialise, place of study, airport
c4
De minimis contract		 Kirmington

Humberside Airport

Barnetby

Wrawby

Brigg

Scawby

Hibaldstow

Redbourne

Kirton in Lindsey

 No service Every two hours No service Health care facilities, place of worship, leisure facilities, commuter service, retail facilities, socialise, place of study, airport
6*
Commercial service* Operated jointly with Stagecoach		 Scunthorpe Bus Station

Old Brumby Street Retail

Ashby High Street

Derwent Road

 Half hourly Half hourly Operated by Stagecoach East Midlands Health care facilities, place of worship, leisure facilities, commuter service, retail facilities, socialise, place of study
10(10a/b)
Tendered service		 Burringham

Ashfield Caravan Park

Parklands

Gallagher Retail Park

Skippingdale Retail Park

Lakeside Retail Park

Scunthorpe Bus Station

 One journey per day No service No service Retail facilities, socialise, place of study
12
Commercial service		 Scunthorpe Bus Station

Cemetery Road

Ashby High Street

Riddings Estate

Ashfield Caravan Site

 Hourly Hourly No service Health care facilities, place of worship, leisure facilities, commuter service, retail facilities, socialise, place of study
94
Commercial service		 Brigg

Scawby

Hibaldstow

Kirton In Lindsey

 Every two hours No service No service Health care facilities, place of worship, leisure facilities, retail facilities, socialise,
399 *
Commercial with some De minimus* Operated jointly with Stagecoach		 Scunthorpe Bus Station

Gallagher Retail Park

Althorpe

West Butterwick

Beltoft and Belton

Epworth

Doncaster

 Every two hours Operated
by Stagecoach East Midlands		 No service Health care facilities, place of worship, leisure facilities, commuter service, retail facilities, socialise, place of study, train station, cross county

Hornsby Travel also operate the following services:

  • Services 91, 92, 93 which operates within Brigg between 09:10 and 14:10 on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays only. Service 93 runs to Howsham, Cadney and Brigg Garden Centre. Service 254 which operates hourly within Barton between 09:15 and 14:00 on Monday, Wednesday and Friday only.
  • Service 4 has been extended to Normanby Hall on a Saturday between Easter and end of October.
  • Service x4 commuter service from Scunthorpe to Brigg Monday to Saturday at 08:00 and return at 17:45.

Full details of the services can be found on Hornsby Travel website.

3) Bus services in North Lincolnshire operated by 21 Transport

 

Service Number Route Frequency Monday to Friday Frequency Saturday Frequency Sunday Key Facilities
60
Tendered
Service		 Scunthorpe Bus Station

Flixborough

Normanby

Burton upon Stather

Thealby, Coleby

Whitton

 Every one and a half hours Every one and a half hours No service Health care facilities, place of worship,  retail facilities, place of study, train station, cross county
260
Tendered
Service		 Barton upon Humber

Barrow

New Holland

Goxhill

East Halton

S Killingholme

Immingham

 Every two hours Every two hours No service Health care facilities, place of worship,  retail facilities,  cross county, train station

4) Scheduled bus services in North Lincolnshire operated by First South Yorkshire

Service Number Route Frequency Monday to Friday Frequency Saturday Frequency Sunday Key Facilities
357
Commercial service with de minimis		 Doncaster

Haxey

Westwoodside

Epworth

 Three runs a day Three runs a day No service Health care facilities, place of worship, commuter service, retail facilities, place of study, train station, cross county
N3

Commercial service

 Crowle

Epworth

Haxey

Westwoodside

Doncaster New college

 Two runs per day No service Health care facilities, place of worship, leisure facilities, commuter service, retail facilities, socialise, place of study, cross county, train station

5) Scheduled bus services in North Lincolnshire operated by North Lincolnshire Council Community Transport

Number 97 to Garthorpe to Sandtoft

Monday, Wednesday and Thursday only (NBH – Not Bank Holidays)

Service Number 97 97 97
NBH NBH NBH
Garthorpe Bay Horse 11.00 15.21
Luddington Eastoft Road South 11.06 15.27
Eastoft Samson Street West 11.11 15.32
Crowle Community Hub 11.18 15.39
Ealand New Trent Street 11.23 15.44
Woodhouse Grange 11.29 15.50
Belton High Street 11.33 15.54
Epworth Market Place 11.41 13.30 16.02
Haxey Marlborough Avenue 11.52 13.41
Westwoodside Pond 11.58 13.47
Wroot Village Hall 12.06 13.55
Sandtoft 12.15 14.04

Number 97 to Sandtoft to Garthorpe

Monday, Wednesday and Thursday only (NBH – Not Bank Holidays)

Service Number 97 97
NBH NBH
Sandtoft 09.40 14.05
Wroot Village Hall 09.49 14.14
Westwoodside Pond 09.57 14.22
Haxey Marlborough Avenue 10.03 14.28
Epworth Market Place 10.11 14.36
Belton High Street 10.21 14.46
Woodhouse Grange 10.25 14.50
Ealand New Trent 10.30 14.56
Ealand Outgate o/s 8 10.32 14.57
Crowle Market Place 10.36 15.01
Eastoft Samson Street East 10.44 15.09
Luddington Eastoft Road North 10.49 15.14
Garthorpe Bay Horse 10.55 15.20

Number 97a  Garthorpe to Sandtoft

Tuesday and Friday only

Service Number 97a 97a 97a
Garthorpe Bay Horse
Luddington Eastoft Road South
Eastoft Samson Street West
Crowle Community Hub 11.05 14.50
Ealand New Trent Street 11.10 14.55
Tesco Doncaster Road 12.15 15.15
Doncaster Road o/s 71 west 12.18 15.18
Gunness Station Road south 12.19 15.19
Althorpe A18 west 12.20 15.20
Keadby Trunk Road southwest 12.22 15.22
Woodhouse Grange 11.16 12.29 15.29
Belton High Street 11.20 12.33 15.34
Epworth Market Place 11.28 12.41 15.41
Haxey Marlborough Avenue 12.52
Westwoodside Pond 12.58
Wroot Village Hall 13.06
Sandtoft 13.15

Number 97a  Sandtoft to Garthorpe

Tuesday and Friday only

 

Service Number 97a 97a 97a
Sandtoft 09.45
Wroot Village Hall 09.54
Westwoodside Pond 10.02
Haxey Marlborough Avenue 10.08
Epworth Market Place 10.16 11.45 14.20
Belton High Street 10.26 11.55 14.30
Woodhouse Grange 10.30 11.59 14.34
Keadby Trunk Road northeast 10.37 12.06
Althorpe A18 east 10.39 12.08
Gunness Station Road north 10.40 12.09
Doncaster Road opp 71 east 10.41 12.10
Tesco Doncaster Road 10.43 12.12
Ealand New Trent 14.40
Ealand Outgate o/s 8 14.41
Crowle Market Place 14.45
Eastoft Samson Street East
Luddington Eastoft Road North
Garthorpe Bay Horse

Appendix B

Summary of schemes which have been implemented using the BSIP+ funding

Scheme Operator / NLC Date approved at EP Board
New service C4 Hornsby Travel 14/09/2023
Extension of service 260 to Immingham Stagecoach 14/09/2023
Additional journey on 350 service on Sundays Stagecoach 14/09/2023
Community Transport on 96/97 service NLC 14/09/2023
Bus Disruption Survey NLC 14/09/2023
Maintenance of Infrastructure including real time NLC 14/09/2023
Extension to service 4 on Sundays and Bank Holidays Stagecoach 23/11/2023
Additional routes on Number 10 Monday to Friday Stagecoach 23/11/2023
Additional evening routes on service 90 Stagecoach 23/11/2023
Additional journeys on 350 service Stagecoach 17/01/2024
Additional evening journeys on service 103 Stagecoach 17/01/2024
Additional journey on service 357 First 17/01/2024
Additional Service 6 on Sundays Stagecoach 17/01/2024
Additional Service 260 on Saturdays Stagecoach 17/01/2024
Extension of service 4 to Normanby Hall on Saturdays Hornsby Travel 17/01/2024
Additional 7 and 8 Sunday service Stagecoach 17/01/2024
Support for sustaining existing routes NLC 15/02/2024
Reduced fares for the youth market NLC / operators 14/09/2023
X4 service Hornsby 02/01/2025
398 service on Tuesdays and Fridays Stagecoach 01/04/2025

Appendix C

National Highways & Transport Network Survey

 

Description 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024
Frequency of bus services 60 60 57 55 55 46 50 52
Number of bus stops 70 70 68 65 63 62 62 63
The state of bus stops 62 63 60 56 57 52 55 54
Whether buses arrive on time 63 64 62 61 56 49 51 58
How easy buses are to get on/off 72 73 75 69 68 65 68 70
The local bus service overall 63 63 61 61 59 50 54 55
Bus fares 52 54 49 55 52 47 56 64
Quality and cleanliness of buses 64 64 65 62 61 60 64 62
Helpfulness of drivers 69 69 68 69 64 66 67 69
Personal safety on the bus 70 70 71 69 64 66 66 65
Personal safety while waiting at bus stop 66 67 67 61 63 58 61 62
Raised kerbs at bus stops 68 71 69 68 64 62 65 64
The amount of information 57 52 52 52 52 44 48 47
The clarity of information 58 53 52 52 52 44 48 50
The accuracy of information 60 57 57 56 54 45 49 52
Ease of finding the right information 54 52 50 52 49 42 47 46
Information about accessible buses 50 48 48 50 50 40 46 46
Information to help people plan journeys 57 56 55 54 52 44 50 49
Provision of public transport information 56 52 53 52 50 42 46 47
Provision of bus stops 88 84 84 84 86 85

Graph showing data for bus service over 5 years. Text version above.

Graph showing the results of survey on bus stops for 5 year period. Text version in table above.

Overall satisfaction of local bus services has seen a gradual decline since 2017. 2023 saw the first increase in satisfaction for six years.

Graph showing the results of survey around information supplied over a 5 year period. Text version in table above.

Graph showing results of survey relating to local bus services overall. Text version in table above.