A consultation has been launched by the Senior Traffic Commissioner for Great Britain to review how traffic commissioners assess the performance of local bus services. This includes examining punctuality, reliability, and wider regulatory expectations.
The consultation seeks views from operators, local authorities, passenger groups, and other stakeholders. It aims to determine if current standards remain appropriate and how they should evolve with industry changes, legislation, and technology.
A key focus is whether the long-standing expectation that 95% of services operate within a window of one minute early to five minutes late remains suitable in 2026. The consultation also explores how standards should apply to different service types, what constitutes a 'reasonable excuse' for poor performance, and what positive actions by operators should be recognised.
Additionally, the call for evidence considers the need for clearer guidance when performance falls below expectations, including the role of improvement plans before formal regulatory action. Views are also sought on compliance with Bus Open Data obligations, the use of Traffic Management Act 2004 powers, and regulatory responses to services operating without required authority in franchised areas.
Kevin Rooney, Senior Traffic Commissioner for Great Britain, stated that the consultation provides an opportunity for all stakeholders to share their views on how performance standards should be applied in the future.