Concerns over low bus usage in the West Midlands have prompted calls for a thorough investigation into why residents prefer driving despite accessible public transport options. Solihull councillor Andrew Burrow, chair of the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) Overview and Scrutiny Committee, highlighted the dilemma facing the region: even where regular bus services are available, many people remain reluctant to leave their cars behind.
Burrow emphasized that upcoming housing developments on Green Belt land will bring additional funding through Section 106 agreements, intended to enhance public transport. However, he cautioned that simply increasing the number of bus services won’t automatically lead to higher ridership. “We need to understand why people don’t use the bus services that already exist,” he said, urging WMCA to conduct comprehensive research.
West Midlands Mayor Richard Parker responded positively, committing to engage with councillor Burrow and direct officers to explore effective ways to boost bus patronage, especially in rural areas.
READ MORE: Labour Proposes Major Council Tax Overhaul Impacting All Bands, Millions to Face Increases
READ MORE: Consumer Watchdog Ranks TSB as Worst High Street Bank: Virgin Money, Santander, and Halifax Nearby
Currently, bus services account for 80% of the region’s public transport journeys, facilitating approximately 245 million passenger trips annually. Still, the core challenge remains increasing this figure by persuading more car users to opt for buses.
Burrow remarked, “Building on the Green Belt is controversial, and with significant Section 106 funds available to improve bus networks, we have one chance to get it right. We need to identify whether issues stem from information systems, poor connections, or other factors. Most importantly, we must hear directly from those who don’t use buses to understand their reasons.”
Mayor Parker concluded, “I will ensure the Combined Authority team engages with these concerns to find practical ways to encourage more people to choose buses, particularly outside urban centers.”
The initiative marks a significant step towards addressing the transport puzzle in the West Midlands, aiming to create a more sustainable future for the region’s growing population.