Funding approved to subsidise bus services in area

Cabinet members have agreed to continue with funding to subsidise the 1, 2 and 20 Europarc Bus Services and the Phone ‘n’ Ride Service.

The current contracts for the service are due to expire in early 2022.

Following Cabinet approval for the funding yesterday, Wednesday 3 November, a retendering exercise will be launched to secure a delivery partner for the subsidised services.

Following a recommendation from the council’s scrutiny panel, Cabinet members gave the go-ahead to invite operators to tender for a number of options which include a one-year contract, a three-year contract and a four-year contract with possible extension periods. This will allow further consideration on which options would provide the best value to meet the needs of the community.

Councillor Stewart Swinburn, portfolio holder for environment and transport at North East Lincolnshire Council, said: “It is vital we have adequate public transport options to ensure our residents are connected to employment and training sites.

“The Europarc service is a lifeline for employers and employees at the business park and I am pleased we can continue to support them for the years ahead. Additionally, the Phone ‘n’ Ride Service will continue to play a vital role in keeping our residents connected with where they need to go – whether that be for work, leisure, socialising or health.”