More bus services could come to Wokingham borough under new plan

BETTER bus services to connect towns and villages across the borough are being planned by Wokingham Borough Council.

The council has published its Bus Service Improvement Plan, which aims to secure a share of the £3 billion set aside by the Department for Transport to boost passenger numbers across the country.

If secured, plans could improve connections between Wokingham town, Twyford, Earley, Woodley, Reading, Bracknell and Henley.

The aim is to have more frequent bus services, better access in rural areas and cheaper fares for young people.

Cllr Pauline Jorgensen, executive member for highways and transport, said the plan is a chance to make a real difference to the range of travel options available.

And Cllr Gregor Murray, executive member for resident services, communications and emissions, hopes it will reduce car journeys, too.

“If funding is available and agreement is reached with operators, our bus service improvement plan will also reduce the volume of greenhouse emissions like carbon dioxide, ensuring Wokingham borough continues to do all it can to address the climate emergency,” he said.

Operators would also be supported to “green” their fleets by upgrading vehicles or buying new ones that use cleaner and more modern technology, including electric vehicles.

The document will be reviewed annually and will introduce a passengers’ charter and user group giving residents more say in how services run.

The former will explain what standards passengers can expect and how to complain if they are not satisfied.

The council hopes to agree more detailed steps by April.