Your article (Almost a fifth of England bus services disappeared in the last five years, 7 June) does not cover operations expenses or the purposes of bus services in suburban suburbs (and suburban). Different from urban areas, most of their use is in low income, especially pensioners, which are largely unable to afford a vehicle or unable to prevent one. Over 20% of UK households do not have access to a vehicle. The passengers’ demand for such services is relatively under the terms of numbers, but for those who use them usually their go to stores with their local bus service as a bus line as a lifetime.
Problem in terms of cost – but also in image terms – is a large standard bus, carrying six or seven passengers better in their cars, a “quitting use of Council tax.
The better, more cheaper option is to use 16-seater minibus. It is obvious that it has a significantly low cost capital, but also significantly lower running, especially the cost of non-existent public service licenses but if storms of 70, a normal driver’s license. They are also more menuurvirable on country roads or around home estates. The local service attitude means regular passengers know regular drivers and, of course, making a friendly and support environment. Usually the experience is very important for someone living alone.
Currently, almost all minibuses of passenger operations converted vanities. If the government acknowledges that minibus is the most effective cost solution for rural bus services then there are entrepreneurs specific for passengers.
Mike Parker
Director General, Nexus (Tyne & Passenger wear transport Executive), 1994-2006; Chair Chair, Wines Oxfordshire Community Transport2023-24
