22/05/2007

Stagecoach, one of the UK's biggest transport groups, today (22 May 2007) called on bus operators, transport authorities and Government to form a "partnership for passengers" to grasp the opportunities presented by the Draft Local Transport Bill.

A Stagecoach Group spokesman said: "We welcome the proposals contained in the draft Bill to promote intelligent car use and improve the operating environment for buses.

"Buses have a critical role to play in tackling the twin challenges of congestion and climate change that are facing our country. If we get the legislation right, we can build on the growth in bus use we have seen in many towns and cities across the UK and deliver a further step-change in services.

"We continue to have concerns over some specific proposals, particularly Quality Contracts, and we will engage further with Government on these issues. In the interests of passengers, we must also ensure the Bill is not hijacked by people determined to fight the political battles of yesterday rather than working together to develop the better buses of tomorrow.

"We are committed to playing our part in building a powerful partnership for passengers, sharing responsibility for improving services and sharing in the success of growing bus use."

ENDS

For further information, please contact:
Steve Stewart, Director of Corporate Communications, Stagecoach Group
Tel: 01738 442111 or mobile 07764 774680

NOTES TO EDITORS

Stagecoach is one of UK's biggest bus and coach operators, connecting communities in nearly 100 towns and cities. The company runs around 7,000 vehicles from Devon in south-west England to Inverness in the Highlands of Scotland, carrying around 2 million passengers every day. Stagecoach has been named UK Bus Operator of the Year for the past two years.