Buses are a crucial part of Bedford Borough’s transport network, providing essential connections to employment, education, retail and healthcare. They serve as a lifeline for those who depend on them and offer a viable alternative for car users. Bedford Borough Council invests significant funding into bus services to maintain connectivity across many communities.
In addition, the Council manages the concessionary travel scheme for older and disabled residents and is responsible for the maintenance of bus stops and passenger information. The Council also oversees a partnership with the three primary bus operators and other stakeholders to ensure services meet the needs of the community.
Why we are consulting
We are seeking public feedback on bus services in Bedford Borough, with a particular focus on understanding the reasons why residents may not be using them or the barriers they face.
Your input, whether you use buses or not, is vital and will directly inform future plans for bus services, particularly as contracts for the services we fund are reviewed in the coming months.
Purpose of public consultation:
- To understand people’s views of current bus services.
- To gather specific views on barriers to accessing bus services in Bedford Borough.
How to have your say
Please use the online form:
Respond to the bus usage survey
If you are unable to complete the survey online paper versions of this public consultation will be made available at the following locations:
- Borough Hall reception
- Bedford Borough Hub (Horne Lane)
- What’s On information and visitor hub (Silver Street)
- all libraries
- all Better leisure centres
If you require a paper copy delivered, or translated version, please email sustainable.transport@bedford.gov.uk.
What happens next
The public consultation runs from Friday 19 September 2025 until Friday 19 December 2025. Paper copies available to submit until Friday 16 January 2026.
The Council will present results of this public consultation, alongside any additional responses obtained directly from local bus companies on the website.