This guidance sets out the outcomes that LTAs should aim to deliver when designing and setting up their own bus grants to be paid to operators of local bus services. It also outlines a set of practical considerations LTAs should have regard to before deciding to exercise the powers in section 154A, including when designing grant schemes.
This guidance relates to section 154A of the Transport Act 2000 (TA2000), as amended by the Bus Services Act 2025. This provision gives powers to local transport authorities (LTAs) to pay grants to operators of local bus services (bus grants) within their area.
This guidance is issued under the power granted to the Secretary of State under section 154A(6) of the TA2000 to issue guidance to LTAs on the exercise of the grant-making powers. It is directed towards LTAs, as defined in section 108(4) of the TA2000.
This guidance sets out the outcomes that LTAs should aim to deliver when designing and setting up their own bus grants to be paid to operators of local bus services. It also outlines a set of practical considerations LTAs should have regard to before deciding to exercise the powers in section 154A, including when designing grant schemes.
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