12/12/2006

Stagecoach, one of the UK’s biggest bus operators, today (12 December 2006) gave a “cautious welcome” to proposals announced by the Department for Transport following its review of bus services.

A Stagecoach Group spokesman said: “We are pleased the Government recognises the crucial role played by the bus in meeting the transport challenges facing our country.

“The Government’s proposals reflect the significant contribution that partnership working is making to the development of bus services and the strengths of the private sector in delivering and improving public transport.

“While we will need to study the proposals closely, and the fine detail of the recommendations has still to be finalised, it is clear a number of our ideas for improving the environment in which bus services operate have been embraced by the Government.

“Stagecoach has consistently attracted more people on board its buses in both metropolitan areas and shire counties for the past five years as a result of innovation, investment, strong marketing and management expertise.

“We look forward to engaging with the Government and other stakeholders in the months ahead to ensure that the final measures are in the best interests of passengers, taxpayers and the future of the bus industry.”

ENDS

For further information, please contact:
Steve Stewart, Head of Media and Public Affairs, Stagecoach Group
Tel: 01738 442111 or mobile 07764 774680

NOTES TO EDITORS

Stagecoach is one of UK’s biggest bus and coach operators, connecting communities in nearly 100 towns and cities. The company runs around 7,000 vehicles from Devon in south-west England to Inverness in the Highlands of Scotland, carrying around 2 million passengers every day.