Bridget Phillipson MP celebrates Big Bus Campaign victory

The North East Combined Authority yesterday voted in favour of establishing the country’s first regulated transport system outside of London since 1986, ending a four year campaign led by Bridget Phillipson MP.

The decision kicks starts the process set out in the 2000 and 2008 Transport Acts where the proposed scheme will be verified by the QCS Board in Whitehall before implementation. The scheme is due to come into force in early 2017.

The agreement comes after a letter to all North East Combined Authority leaders organised by Bridget Phillipson MPwas signed by all twelveMPs in Tyne and Wear.

The letter urged the Combined Authority to vote in favour of establishing a regulated transport system to support jobs and growth in the region.

Speaking after the vote, Bridget Phillipson MP, said:

“I am delighted the North East Combined Authority has voted to introduce the country’s first regulated transport system outside of London since the Thatcher government deregulated bus services in 1986.

“The Quality Contract Scheme Board will now be asked to assess the scheme before it can be brought into force. The bus operators should now respect this democratic decision and work to support passengers.”