A PACKAGE of measures to empower local leaders in Bradford and across the country to take control of their bus services has been unveiled today (Monday) by Transport Secretary Louise Haigh.

Legislation is being laid before Parliament today which gives all Local Transport Authorities across England new powers to run their own bus services - powers previously limited to Mayoral Combined Authorities.

The move means that local leaders across the country can deliver services in a way that suits the needs of their communities.

The Government has also launched a consultation on new draft guidance to provide advice and support for local leaders looking to bring services into public control.

The Government says the new, simplified guidance will help break down barriers to local control of bus services, speeding up the process and bringing down costs.

The guidance will also put the needs of passengers and bus drivers first - by encouraging local transport authorities to consider driver welfare and passenger safety, including on anti-social behaviour and violence against women and girls.

The new Buses Bill, which will follow this first Statutory Instrument, will bring an end to the current postcode lottery by taking steps to improve bus services no matter where you live.

The Buses Bill will also reverse the ban on setting up new publicly owned bus companies, provide greater flexibility over bus funding, and will take steps to improve bus services for communities who choose not to pursue public control.

Buses remain the most used form of public transport across the country, but Government officials say - after almost four decades of failed deregulation - vital services have been slashed and there is little accountability to passengers.

Transport Secretary Louise Haigh said: “Buses are the lifeblood of our communities, but for too many people it has become impossible to rely on local services, as routes have been slashed and timetables hollowed out. “Today is the first stop on our journey to delivering better buses across the country. After decades of failed deregulation, local leaders will finally have the powers to provide services that deliver for passengers.

"And we are taking steps to support local leaders to deliver improved bus services faster and cheaper than ever before.

“With local communities firmly back in the driving seat, our bus revolution will save vital routes up and down the country and put passengers first."