Issue - meetings

Forward Plan Ref: 2023/222

Contact: Dave Harrison, Principal Public Transport Planner, dave.harrison@oxfordshire.gov.uk 

Report by Corporate Director Environment & Place (CMDHM9).

To seek approval to begin tender processes to renew contracts for bus services The new contracts need to begin in February 2024.

The Cabinet Member is RECOMMENDED to:

a)    approve a procurement process to secure new and continued bus service provision in Banbury, Heyford Park, villages north of Bicester and between Oxford and Wallingford; and

b)    delegate approval of final contract award to the Director of Transport & Infrastructure.

The Cabinet Member APPROVED:

a)    a procurement process to secure new and continued bus service provision in Banbury, Heyford Park, villages north of Bicester and between Oxford and Wallingford; and

b)    to delegate approval of final contract award to the Director of Transport & Infrastructure.

The Chair commented on how this was a good example of the partnership between bus operators and the County Council which resulted in bus provision for residents, particularly in rural areas.

The Chair drew attention to paragraph 7 in the report which stated that ‘the 2023/24 budget created a new ongoing £1,200, 000 allocation for rural and community transport services, and £100,000 for improved bus information’ and commented that during a time of significant budget pressure, this Council was supporting the priorities.

The Cabinet Member APPROVED:

a)    a procurement process to secure new and continued bus service provision in Banbury, Heyford Park, villages north of Bicester and between Oxford and Wallingford; and

b)    to delegate approval of final contract award to the Director of Transport & Infrastructure.