LOCAL BUS SERVICE ENHANCEMENTS IN LANCASHIRE

Whilst it has been advised against travelling on public transport unless necessary during the current COVID-19 pandemic, the county council's supported bus services and commercial bus operators are continuing to operate services for key workers, and those with no alternative, to access employment and make essential travel. Enhanced cleaning regimes and social distancing practices have been put in place on buses across the county, with Central Government currently providing emergency financial support for both the commercial and county council's tendered bus service networks. Beyond the phased release of lockdown measures, bus services will still need to play a vital part in keeping people connected and being able to access local amenities, employment, health and education in the future. Utilising newer more environmentally friendly buses, better customer facilities on board, such as contactless payments and Wi-Fi are all either in place already or will appear in the near future. With the easing of lockdown measures, bus service levels are gradually being restored.  The Government has issued safer travel guidance for passengers which is available to read - www.gov.uk/guidance/ coronavirus-covid-19-safer-travelguidance-for-passengers