NEW plans to ensure public funding for supported bus services in Staffordshire are set to be approved.
The proposed Staffordshire County Council framework will formalise a "consistent, evidence-based method" of reviewing routes to help make decisions on how money is used across the network.
It will use subsidy cost per passenger journey as well as wider considerations including access to jobs, education, healthcare and community connectivity.
Supported bus services receive council funding because they are not commercially viable but provide important links for communities, particularly in rural areas.
The reviews are also required to ensure the council continues to meet Government expectations linked to bus funding.
Cllr Andrew Mynors, Staffordshire County Council’s cabinet member for connectivity, said:
"Good bus services are vital for residents, communities and our local economy, which is why it's important that the funding we receive is used where it can make the biggest difference.
"This framework will give us a clear, transparent and evidence-based way of assessing supported bus services, helping ensure we get the best value for money for Staffordshire taxpayers while continuing to support people who rely on local buses.
"It will ensure decisions are based on data, while also recognising the wider role buses play in connecting people to work, education, healthcare and other essential services."
The proposals will be discussed at a meeting of the county council's cabinet next week.
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