Few new operators—AMA
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• Many of the hoped-for benefits of deregulation have not materialised because operators are slow to compete and tend to stick to their old routes, according to a major report on the effects of the Transport Act.
Oxford University, which made the survey on behalf of the Association of Metropolitan Authorities and the Passenger Transport Executive Group, also found that: 1=1 Few new operators are entering the bus market; 1=1 Passengers are often unable to obtain up-to-date travel information; El Fares have not been reduced in urban areas.
While it predicts that these may be short term problems, the report warns that passengers may be driven to find other means of transport.
The good news is that some operators have become more innovative and competitive tendering has led to savings in some areas.
Councillor Mike Simmons, chairman of the AMA public transport committee, says the report ". . . demonstrates that ministerial claims that deregulation has been a success are, to say the least, premature."
There are more mini-buses on Britain's roads since deregulation, according to the latests AMA study. National Welsh is now running 100, including these new Freight Rover Sherpas with Carlyle II bodywork.