Masey – PUBLIC CONSULTATION AND INFORMATION 1986

Description

This paper reports preliminary findings from a review of how local authorities consulted stakeholders about securing non‑commercial bus services and publicised services after the 1985 Transport Act and deregulation. Based on discussions with county, regional and PTE officers during the transition, it finds wide variation in consultation: some areas established comprehensive public transport committees and user forums, while others consulted only county councillors or used no formal methods. The 42‑day registration period for commercial services constrains meaningful consultation and will force procedural changes. Publicity for deregulation relied heavily on short‑term, local booklets, telephone enquiry services and simplified distribution because of tight timetables, though many authorities aim for countywide information using computer packages in future. A tension exists between operators (reluctant to co‑ordinate publicity) and authorities (keen to reduce passenger confusion), exemplified by Gwynedd’s comprehensive “Bus Gwynedd” scheme. Overall, approaches are diverse and uncertain, with methods expected to evolve as deregulation effects become clearer.