Bus Services Boost UK Economy by £11bn, £1.8bn in East Midlands
Bus services play a pivotal role in the UK economy, with local bus services alone contributing £11bn directly to the national economy. In the East Midlands, these services generate a substantial £1.8bn, demonstrating their regional economic impact.
The economic contribution of bus services extends beyond direct employment. On average, bus passengers spend £32 per return journey in local shops and facilities, amounting to a significant £39.1bn per year. This spending supports not only the bus industry but also local businesses and communities.
Bus operators directly employ 105,000 people and indirectly support a further 53,000 jobs in the supply chain. Moreover, buses provide access to jobs, education, and training worth £8.7bn, health benefits worth £2.8bn, and help reduce congestion worth £600m per year. Bus commuters, by accessing jobs via bus commutes, contribute £15bn in taxes from their £72bn earnings.
The Confederation of Passenger Transport UK (CPT) research underscores the immense value of local bus services to the British economy. In the East Midlands, these services generate £1.8bn, highlighting their importance to the regional economy. By providing access to jobs, education, and reducing congestion, buses play a crucial role in supporting local communities and businesses.
