Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, if she will issue guidance to local authorities on ensuring that bus stop bypasses are accessible to blind and partially sighted people.

The government has committed to publishing new statutory guidance for local authorities on the design of floating bus stops, also known as bus stop bypasses, within three months of the Bus Services (No.2) Bill receiving Royal Assent. We will engage with the Disabled Persons Transport Advisory Committee on the guidance and will also work with relevant stakeholders, including groups representing the needs of blind and partially sighted people.

The Bill also seeks a new power for the Secretary of State to develop statutory guidance on the safety and accessibility of bus stops and stations. It is our intention that the design guidance will complement the safety and accessibility guidance, helping to ensure that people are not prevented from using bus services because of inadequate accessibility.