Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, if she will work with (a) local authorities and (b) bus network operators to ensure new bus stop installations minimise weather exposure on bus users.

The Government recognises the value that high-quality public transport infrastructure provides to passengers, including bus stops. Local authorities are responsible for the bus stops in their area, however the Department has published Local Transport Note (LTN) 1/24 Bus User Priority which provides guidance on good practice in the design of bus stops, including providing weatherproof shelters in passenger waiting areas. The Government’s Bus Services (No.2) Bill also provides powers for the Secretary of State to produce statutory guidance on the inclusivity of the design of bus and coach stations and stops, and to require authorities commissioning work to provide new or upgrade existing facilities to pay due regard to this guidance.

At the Autumn 2024 Budget, the Government confirmed over £1 billion to support and improve bus services, including £712 million allocated to local authorities in England outside London in 2025/26 to support and improve bus services. This includes capital funding which can be used to improve infrastructure such as bus stations and stops. Shropshire Council and Telford and Wrekin Council have been allocated £4.5 million and £3.5 million of this funding respectively.