Bus Services Boost UK Economy by £51bn Annually, Study Finds
A new study by the Confederation of Passenger Transport UK (CPT) highlights the significant economic impact of local bus services in the UK. The research reveals that buses contribute billions to the economy, support jobs, and enhance communities.
Bus passengers spend a substantial £1 in every £10 on the High Street, totalling nearly £40bn annually. This spending boosts local economies and supports businesses. Furthermore, bus operators directly employ 105,000 people and create another 53,000 jobs in the supply chain, contributing a combined £11bn to the British economy.
Bus commuters also benefit personally, earning £72bn through jobs accessed via bus commutes and paying £15bn in taxes. Buses provide access to various services, including jobs, education, and training worth £8.7bn, health benefits valued at £2.8bn, and support for volunteer work worth over £1bn. Additionally, they help reduce congestion, saving £600m per year.
In the East Midlands, bus services generate a significant £1.8bn. Plans are underway to invest in networks for sustainability and innovation, further enhancing these economic benefits. On average, bus passengers spend £32 per return journey in local shops, cafes, restaurants, and leisure facilities, contributing £39.1bn to local economies annually.
The CPT's research underscores the crucial role of local bus services in the UK economy. By supporting jobs, boosting local spending, and reducing congestion, buses contribute significantly to communities and the nation as a whole. Investment in bus networks, such as those planned in the East Midlands, is vital for maintaining and expanding these economic benefits.
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