Bus Network Review 2022

Overview

Have your say on the future of the Borders’ bus network

Borders businesses and residents are being encouraged to take part in a survey which will help shape the future of the bus network in the area.

Following changes to travel habits, both gradual and more significant following the Covid-19 pandemic, it is important that a modern bus network is put in place which reflects changes in society, increases bus usage, provides opportunities for young people to stay in the region and helps support the behavioural change necessary to achieve Net Zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2045.

Currently the Scottish Borders is served by 42 bus routes, which have remained largely unchanged for many years and are run by multiple bus operators. Fixed route services are supplemented by a small number of Demand Responsive Transport services, including PINGO in Berwickshire. The majority of services are subsidised by Council funding.

The survey can be completed online. It is open until 9 January 2023.

Through the Edinburgh and South East Scotland City Region Deal work has been ongoing with employers and education providers to map workforce and student travel habits. This, alongside existing bus usage data and the survey results, will help to identify opportunities to create better public transport solutions based on a robust understanding of where and when there is travel demand.

The bus network review will take into consideration new working habits post-Covid as well as local transport developments, such as the opening of Reston Station, and planned investment into a coast-to-coast cycle route and the Destination Tweed trail, amongst a range of considerations.