Bus users are being invited to have their say on how bus services in York are planned and delivered.
City of York Council and local bus operators are encouraging commuters, residents and visitors to join the Bus User Group (BUSUG) on a voluntary basis to be involved in helping to improve bus travel in York.
The group has already helped to make influential decisions shaping a number of changes to the network, including:
• the design of the new all-operator bus timetables, now in use at all bus stops in York
• and, the installation of real time information screens
Meetings are held every two months at different times throughout the year to accommodate work commitments, and members of the group are also asked to provide feedback online, on the phone or by completing questionnaires.
Julian Ridge, Better Bus Area Project programme manager, at City of York Council, said: “This is an excellent opportunity for the council and bus operators to engage with the bus users on important issues affecting the bus network.“We will continue to consult on major schemes and initiatives but this is an additional focus for us to listen and take on board what bus passengers are experiencing.
”Members of the group are chosen carefully so that the group is representative of all bus users in York. As such, the council is particularly interested in welcoming new applications from people who commute to work by bus, people who use rural bus services and younger people.
Members are also encouraged to act as ‘ambassadors’ on York’s bus network, and report any problems they may experience back to the council.
To find out more information or to join the group, email buses@york.gov.uk , call the council’s York Customer Centre on 01904 551550 (and ask for Julian Ridge from the Bus team), or complete the application form at www.itravelyork.info/news Applications can be returned to the above email address or posted free post to FREEPOST CYC TRAVEL by Friday 13 March.
Anyone who is considering joining the group, but can’t commit to attending the meetings, can apply to contribute and be part of a ‘wider group’. The voluntary group will enable people to share their ideas during meetings and also by email.