Bus services across Hampshire are set for a major upgrade after £13 million in funding was approved for improvements during 2025/26. The investment, provided by the Department for Transport (DfT), will be used to make bus travel more frequent, reliable, and sustainable as part of Hampshire County Council’s Bus Service Improvement Plan (BSIP).
What Will Change?
The funding aims to enhance public transport by:
- Increasing bus service frequency, including early morning and evening routes.
- Introducing bus priority measures to tackle congestion.
- Supporting the decarbonisation of Hampshire’s bus fleet.
- Expanding Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) routes.
- Upgrading bus stations, interchange hubs, and waiting areas.
- Exploring innovative transport solutions for rural communities.
The Investment Plan
The 2025/26 funding will be used for several key projects, including:
- A bus priority scheme on Bishopstoke Road, Eastleigh.
- Improved infrastructure at Sixth Form Colleges.
- Safety enhancements at bus shelters, such as lighting and CCTV.
- Upgraded real-time travel information on buses and at stops.
- A fund for rural bus shelters, available to town and parish councils.
- Community self-help schemes, offering contributions towards vehicle costs.
- Support for commercial bus services and enhancements to existing routes.
- Measures to offset inflation costs in rural bus services.
- Better bus stop information and disability-friendly initiatives.
The Need for Sustainable Growth
Councillor Nick Adams-King, Leader of Hampshire County Council, welcomed the funding but emphasised the need for long-term viability:
“Our ambition is to create a high-quality, efficient, and dependable bus network. However, Hampshire’s finances remain under pressure, so Government and private investment are vital to linking communities and improving access to essential services.
We must prioritise funding for routes with strong potential for growth rather than those requiring ongoing subsidies, which we simply cannot afford.”
Encouraging More People to ‘Get on Board’
Alongside infrastructure improvements, the council hopes to increase bus usage, particularly in rural areas. Cllr Adams-King highlighted the wider benefits of public transport, stating:
“Using buses more often can help tackle climate change, reduce traffic congestion, and support Hampshire’s economy. A better transport network will also make it easier for young people—our future workforce—to access education, training, and job opportunities.”
A Five-Year Vision for Hampshire’s Buses
The Hampshire Bus Service Improvement Plan (BSIP), first launched in 2021, is a collaboration between Hampshire County Council, Stagecoach, First Bus, and Go South Coast/Bluestar. The five-year strategy seeks to attract further Government and private investment over the next decade, with goals including:
- Upgraded bus facilities and priority lanes.
- Expanded timetables, particularly in the evenings and on Sundays.
- Increased accessibility and reliability for public transport users.
With £13 million now secured, Hampshire is taking another step towards making its bus network faster, greener, and more accessible for everyone.