RISING complaints about the punctuality and cost of Barnsley’s bus services are being fed back to county bosses.
Barnsley Council admitted that although they have no jurisdiction over firms and the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA) take the lead, the ‘ongoing concerns’ relayed by passengers locally are aware of.
Franchising, which is still two-and-a-half years away, will result in public control being restored where operators have to effectively bid for route contracts.
Coun Jake Lodge, who represents the Worsbrough ward, said: “Continued fare increases and delays are still plaguing Barnsley’s buses, but we’re still a long way from the franchising model being rolled out.
“Bus operators do need holding to account and passengers’ voices should be heard.”
Cabinet member for transport Coun James Higginbottom said the council is working alongside SYMCA.
“While we recognise the ongoing concerns about fare increases and service reliability, it is important to be clear about who is responsible.
“The statutory responsibility for overseeing and holding bus operators to account rests with SYMCA, not Barnsley Council.
“Bus franchising will ultimately give SYMCA stronger tools to enforce standards and shape services, by taking our buses back under public control.
“Ultimately they will deliver the improved bus service that our residents need and deserve.
“Until then, it remains SYMCA’s role, as the transport authority, to formally hold operators to account through their established governance and regulatory powers.
“Barnsley Council will continue to challenge, support, and influence on behalf of our residents via SYMCA.”
