A ride of the number 15 bus, a tour of Liberation Station, and a visit to the bus depot were just some of the things in store for the UK Minister for Local Transport during his trip to Jersey today.
Simon Lightwood MP visited the island to gain a greater insight into the island’s bus service model.
It comes as the UK Parliament is considering making it easier for local transport authorities to franchise bus services in their areas, and improve performance, accessibility, and the quality of bus passenger services in the country.
During his visit, Mr Lightwood met Jersey’s Infrastructure Minister Andy Jehan, toured Liberation Station, and visited the LibertyBus depot at La Collette.
Ahead of the visit, Constable Jehan said: “I am pleased to be welcoming Simon Lightwood to Jersey, particularly following the recent award of the new 10-year contract to Liberty Bus.
“This is a fantastic opportunity to showcase the benefits that long-term contracts have, Jersey’s investment in a more environmentally-friendly fleet, as well as our efforts to enhance local community services such as the TownLink and a new northern route.”
Mr Lightwood also met LibertyBus staff and drivers, spoke to passengers, and experienced Jersey’s bus service first-hand by travelling on the number 15 route.
St Luke’s School students welcomed the UK Minister to see their ‘School Street’ in action.
He witnessed the benefits of closing the street to traffic, enabling students to travel to and from school safely.
Mr Lightwood also discussed the Violence Against Women and Girls strategy with Jersey’s Home Affairs Minister, and was given a tour of the States Assembly by the Deputy Bailiff.
