FIGURES in Somerset show more people are using buses, thanks to lower fares, evening buses and “clear improvements” to bus services.

Since the introduction of the government backed £2 bus fares scheme across Somerset, passenger numbers have increased by 14 per cent, resulting in the government extending the scheme until June 30th.

There has been a 25 per cent increase in passengers taking buses in Taunton following the introduction of £1 tickets for rides across the town.

Somerset Council’s Lead Member for Transport and Digital, Cllr Mike Rigby, has welcomed the increase. He praised First Bus for their improvements to their service, after he had previously voiced concerns over the firm.

Cllr Mike Rigby said: “This is all extremely positive and welcome news, as we continue to work hard with the Somerset Bus Partnership and operators to drive passenger numbers up.

“I’m also really pleased to see clear improvements have been made by First Bus South in services across Somerset after I had flagged a number of concerns from the public – chiefly, there were too many cancellations and disruptions due to a shortage of drivers.

“However, there is indeed a marked improvement. In February, we saw almost six percent of the total bus mileage across Somerset cancelled. By the last week of March that had reduced to 0.8 per cent.”

Managing Director of First South, Simon Goff said: “We acknowledge that it has been a challenging time across Somerset and in response we have been putting measures in place to drive an improved service. 

“Working closely with the council, we can see that the actions we have taken so far are making a big difference and I am pleased that we have been able to restore the consistent level of service our customers have come to expect from us.

“It can be challenging to make rural commercial bus services financially sustainable but with great value fares available on the Somerset bus network, there’s never been a better time to give the bus a try.

“Even swapping the car for one or two journeys a week, it can make such a difference to the environment and to your pocket.”