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MP: Rural communities being left behind by bad bus service

Herald Express

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June 11, 2025

VILLAGES in Devon are being “left behind” by bad bus services, says one local MP.

- by GUY HENDERSON Local Democracy Reporter

Buses are a social lifeline for older people, according to South Devon Liberal Democrat MP Caroline Voaden, but the number of bus journeys in Devon has declined by 40% in the last 10 years.

"Many communities have been left behind by unreliable, infrequent or inadequate bus services," she said.

"Many villages have no bus service at all, while others feel lucky to get one a day."

Bus services across England are set for a major overhaul thanks to the Government's new Bus Services Bill, which passed its second reading in the House of Commons this week.

The new legislation aims to protect essential routes from being cut without proper scrutiny.

Local councils will soon have greater powers to safeguard 'socially necessary' services, such as those serving hospitals, schools and rural communities.

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