NEW legislation contains the most radical measures since devolution aimed at making Scotland’s transport network cleaner, smarter and more accessible, the Scottish Government has said.
The Transport Bill, introduced yesterday, would give councils more flexibility in running bus services, through partnership working with operators, local franchising or running services themselves, and allows for the creation of low emission zones. These would be under civil rather than criminal enforcement and would let ministers set consistent standards for emissions and penalties.
Transport Minister Humza Yousaf said: “This government will not stand by as bus passenger numbers decline.”
Greens transport spokesman, John Finnie said the bill was a “missed opportunity” particularly when it comes to improving rail services. He said: “The planned progress on low emission zones is welcome, but considering Scotland is already way behind London in implementing them.
“We are pleased the bill includes provision for local authorities to provide their own bus routes in areas where communities have been left behind by private operators, but it is disappointing that it does not allow for the re-regulation of buses. There’s also not a single mention for trains.”
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