Agenda item

Representatives from Diamond Bus Services were present at the meeting to provide Members with an update in respect of bus services in the Borough of Redditch. The representatives provided answers to the list of Members’ questions which had been provided in advance of the meeting.

In the ensuing debate, the following questions were raised:

What changes, if any, had been made to bus services in Redditch in the last five years? 

The majority of the changes had been made due to changes to the contract with Worcestershire County Council, including fare increases and route alterations.

How were the changes to bus services communicated to Redditch residents?

Diamond Bus Services offered a wide range of information to bus user.  Any changes to services were communicated on the company’s website, on social media, on buses and also via Worcestershire County Council’s website. 

To what extent were the buses in service energy efficient?

The energy rate of vehicles was dependant on the routes and the type of vehicle used.  It was further stated that there were no Euro 6 model buses in operation in Redditch.  Vehicles that met Euro 6 emission were the cleanest in terms of emissions. However, should these be required in future Worcestershire County Council contracts the matter would be investigated further.

What were the strengths of the bus services in Redditch?

The management and staff were based in the local area, there was good network coverage and the bus service in Redditch was subject to some of the lowest fares in the country. Members stated that one of the concerns that the public had raised was that the fares were rising. In this context it was recognised that it would be beneficial to the bus company to inform residents that the fares for Redditch bus services were some of the lowest in the country.

What were the challenges facing bus services in Redditch?

The challenges included some passengers’ behaviour and funding cuts.

How can public sector organisations help to address these challenges?

The Council could work in partnership with Diamond Buses to help alleviate some of the issues with bus users. The Council could also help with the promotion of job vacancies for bus drivers which could be filled by local residents. 

Members further raised a number of points in detail:

·                Diamond Bus Services did not offer return tickets, however, offered a day ticket, which could be used on multiple routes throughout the day and was value for money.

·                It was recognised that it was important to establish sustainable bus services in Redditch.

·                In response to the query regarding breakdowns that occurred on bus services, it was explained that this could be due to the modern vehicles used, which were fitted with sensors and could be due to electrical faults.

·                With regards to training, it was stated that all drivers were qualified and received the required training. New drivers were mentored and no drivers were left alone to operate a service until they knew the bus routes.  Drivers also undertook induction training which included health and safety and relevant legal requirements.