£16m given to KCC to improve services

Councillor Jamie Pout (Deputy Leader and portfolio holder for Transport) has expressed his profound dismay and called for urgent clarification following the announcement of a £16 million funding boost for Kent County Council (KCC) to “improve local bus services, speed up bus journey times and deliver lower fares to help passengers save money on travel”. This revelation comes amidst growing concerns over the reduction of bus services across the district which has left many without a regular service. Cllr Pout said “whilst this new funding is welcomed in such difficult times, this is of little worth to those communities who now have no discernible bus service. Cheaper buses that run on time is great, if a route serves where you live”.

The portfolio holder for Transport firmly believes that it is unacceptable for bus services to be subjected to cuts while KCC receives additional funding specifically aimed at enhancing the very services that are now being compromised. Recognising the crucial role of buses in ensuring accessible and affordable transportation for residents, Cllr Pout asserts that such cuts will disproportionately affect vulnerable members of our community and hinder their ability to access essential services, education, employment, and healthcare.

In light of this situation, Cllr Pout is calling on KCC to review their cuts and allocate the received funding towards those communities that are now completely cut off. He stresses the need for transparent and accountable distribution of funds, ensuring that they are directed to initiatives that truly benefit the communities they are intended to serve.

https://www.gov.uk/government/news/better-bus-services-for-kent-thanks-to-16-million-funding-boost

Cllr Jamie Pout

Deputy Leader, Portfolio holder for Transport, licensing and environmental services

[email protected]