DISCLAIMER:
This duty is currently under review and has not yet been formally signed off by the relevant professional association. The information provided is for reference only and should not be treated as final or authoritative guidance. Please verify any decisions against approved sources or seek professional advice. Updates will be published once sign-off is complete.
Simple terms explainer:
Councils have a duty to make sure people can access local bus services, even in areas where private operators do not run them. If there is no commercial service, the council can step in by arranging and funding a service to meet essential travel needs, such as getting to work, school, or healthcare. This duty helps prevent communities from being cut off and ensures that everyone has reasonable access to public transport.
Legal status
Statutory
Duty category
Roads and transport
Duty type
Public impact
Social determinant of health
Economic stability
Emerging policy and legislation
1
Bodies with shared interest
Transport Scotland
Association of Transport Co-ordinating Officers (ATCO)
Confederation of Passenger Transport (CPT)
Standards and frameworks
4