
Network Prioritisation Levelling Up
This forms a critical part of Worcestershire’s adopted Passenger Transport Strategy and this forms a core element of Worcestershire’s Bus Service Improvement Plan (BSIP). We will continue to support the commercial market. Where some transport needs cannot be met by the commercial market, the Council must consider whether it should intervene, by offering organisational, operational or financial support for any additional service provision. Worcestershire County Council will assess its priorities, in the context of funding made available as sustainability of services our critical to the success of any future network
When considering for funding of routes, priority will be given to areas with higher population density. Where commercial services do not exist, priorities will be considered as follows:
- urban connections – provide a service for people living in urban area over 15,000 to access that urban centre
- inter-urban connection - provide a connection between urban areas of over 15,000 population where there is a travel to work demand
- where train services exist along those corridors, consideration will be given to linking to the nearest rail station rather than supporting the whole route, should the frequency and timings on the rail network suffice
- provide a service to areas of medium population density (around 7,000 – 15,000), for example Bewdley, Catshill, Pershore, to the nearest town or suitable alternative
For areas of lower urban density, for example Upton-upon-Severn and Tenbury Wells, we will work with Town and Parish Councils, local interest groups and operators in each area to define the most appropriate local solution.
A core strategic network is required within Worcestershire to connect the main urban and inter-urban areas and to ensure this is fit for purpose must be supported by measures to improve the punctuality and reliability of vehicles.
The delivery objectives for Network Prioritisation in this iteration of the BSIP and subject to funding are: