The South Yorkshire Combined Authority has confirmed that they have approved plans to develop an Enhanced Partnership with bus operators.

Our bus services are a vital lifeline for many communities across Sheffield and for decades they have been in gradual decline. We’ve seen routes cut off, prices go up and services deteriorate. The move towards an Enhanced Partnership with bus operators is welcome but we need to see a clear plan towards the franchising of public transport.

On Sunday, we saw the lack of ambition our government had to address the climate crisis and I’m calling on leaders across South Yorkshire to show the ambition our government lacks. Passengers and communities cannot wait until 2040 for the introduction of a new zero emission bus fleet – this needs to be introduced immediately.

Our communities need a reliable, cheap and environmentally friendly bus service.