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 the power to subsidise bus services to make sure essential routes continue to operate, even if they are not profitable for commercial operators. This usually happens in rural areas or at times of day when passenger numbers are low. By providing financial support, councils help maintain access to jobs, education, healthcare, and other services for communities that might otherwise be cut off. Subsidies can cover part or all of the cost of running the service, ensuring that public transport remains available and affordable.
Legal status
Discretionary
Duty category
Roads and transport
Duty type
Public impact
Social determinant of health
Economic stability
Emerging policy and legislation
0
Bodies with shared interest
Regional Transport Partnerships (RTPs)
Transport Scotland
Association of Transport Co-ordinating Officers (ATCO)
Confederation of Passenger Transport (CPT)
Standards and frameworks
2