LowCVP introduces Local Transport Authority 'Toolkit' for low carbon buses
Thu 26 January 2012
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The LowCVP has introduced a new guide designed to encourage and increase local government interest in developing low carbon bus strategies which support their own carbon and air quality goals. The Toolkit is a practical guide for transport managers working in local transport authorities (LTAs) and a reference for reviewing the merits of low carbon buses.
The environmental and financial case for low carbon buses is growing as they demonstrate their operational reliability. Progressive restrictions to bus service operator grants (BSOG) and steadily increasing fuel costs are rapidly making them financially affordable while their environmental and passenger benefits are already well known.
The Local Transport Authority Toolkit for Low Carbon Buses has been produced by the Low Carbon Vehicle Partnership, with support from Transport & Travel Research Ltd and Strata Consultants. The guidance note is based on a series of detailed interviews with Local Transport Authorities (LTA) and Bus Operating companies.
The Toolkit explains how the latest bus regulations and powers affect green transport options and highlights the key opportunities where LTAs can play a vital role in encouraging low carbon bus usage in the UK.
The guidance note comprises five themes covering:
•Subsidised Service Procurement
•Voluntary Partnership Agreement
•Quality Partnership Scheme
•Quality Contract Scheme
•Traffic Regulation Condition
The LTA Toolkit has supporting information to aid LTA decision-making regarding low carbon buses. This information includes: an illustrative cost analysis showing the financial case for low carbon buses; a policy case for local carbon buses and additional case studies demonstrating effective deployment of low carbon buses.
Note: The Department for Transport recently announced support for the procurement of further low carbon buses through the Green Bus Fund 3. The deadline for bids and supporting material to reach the Department is 17.00 on 10th February 2012.
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