How the council and companies are setting out to improve bus services in Northampton with new charter
The council and bus companies have set out how they intend to improve bus services across Northampton and beyond, with a new passenger charter.
West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) has joined forces with bus operators and stakeholders to create the charter, which aims to deliver a “more reliable, efficient and enjoyable bus network”, as part of the area’s bus service improvement plan.
The bus passenger charter outlines several improvements, which the council and bus companies are committing to delivering. WNC says passengers will start to see “enhancements in the coming months”.
Key commitments of the bus passenger charter
- Service and information – timetables and route details will be displayed at key bus stops and on partner websites and updated regularly.
- Reliability – drivers to receive regular training to ensure safe driving and customer service, and buses are expected to be reliable and punctual.
- Service provision – maintenance of bus lanes and priority routes for ease of use.
- Fares and ticketing – to make it easy to buy tickets with cash or contactless cards and changes to fares will be announced in advance.
- Bus services and facilities – buses and bus stops will be kept clean, comfortable and safe and drivers will be trained to be friendly, professional and considerate of passenger needs. Buses will also be accessible.
What is being asked of passengers
- Report damaged shelters by emailing [email protected] or calling 0300 126 7000
- Be polite and respectful to drivers and other passengers
- Take your litter with you and avoid leaving rubbish on the bus
- Do not damage bus stops, shelters, information boards, or buses
- Smoking, including e-cigarettes, is not allowed on buses or at shelters
- Follow the driver’s instructions and avoid distracting them
WNC’s Councillor Phil Larratt said: “The charter has been developed collaboratively... to make buses a more accessible and convenient option for those travelling for work, leisure and education.
“Over the coming months users will see a wide range of further enhancements including more accessible services and updated timetables and route information.”
Mark Whitelocks, Stagecoach Midlands managing director added: "This is a key initiative that underscores our commitment to delivering a reliable, comfortable, and customer-focused service. The charter represents a clear framework of the standards passengers can expect from us and other bus operators, ensuring transparency and accountability.”
As part of the bus service improvement plan, a number of additional routes were launched last year.