Council backed buses: The next stop for MK?

In a motion brought to Full Council in October, local Lib Dem councillors called on the Labour-led administration to prepare now so that they are ready to use the new powers soon to be granted by the Government to deliver an affordable, reliable, and accessible bus service for local residents.

The Bus Services No.2 Bill 2024 Bill will give the City Council greater authority to shape and improve local bus services. It comes alongside the Government’s New Towns Taskforce report, which identifies Milton Keynes as a new town location and highlights the potential for significant investment in a future Mass Rapid Transport (MRT) system.

While Lib Dem councillors fully support the city’s long-term ambitions for a modern MRT system, they say that residents can’t afford to wait years for improved transport connections and need to prepare quickly.

Councillor Sam Crooks, who proposed the motion, said:

“We welcome the news that the Government are looking to invest in an MRT system for Milton Keynes, it’s exciting and something that’s been talked about for years. But that’s the problem, it’s very far into the future. Residents need action now. The City Council must use the new powers in the Bill to bring forward proposals for a city-wide bus service as soon as we can. One that is reliable, affordable, and accessible, whilst integrating it with the long-term transport vision for Milton Keynes.”

Transport Spokesperson for the Liberal Democrat Group, Councillor Graham Eaton, added:

“Too many residents are forced to rely on commercial bus services that are unreliable, infrequent, or no longer exist in their area. For young people especially, buses are a lifeline, yet some estates have seen their routes cut back or withdrawn altogether. We need the City Council to bring forward an integrated bus network that meets residents needs now, not years down the line.”

The motion which passed unanimously will now see the administration develop an integrated proposal for a Milton Keynes City Council backed bus service, that will meet immediate transport needs while complimenting future MRT development.