Lancashire transport services to undergo major transformation in April
Changes aim for seamless improvement with no disruption for travellers
Lancashire's transport system is set for an overhaul in April 2024, as the Lancashire Combined County Authority (LCCA) becomes the county's sole local transport authority under a devolution deal.
The LCCA is taking over responsibilities that were previously split across Lancashire County Council, Blackpool Council, and Blackburn with Darwen Council. These include services such as publicly-subsidised bus routes, ticketing schemes, transport information, concessionary travel, and initiatives to promote walking and cycling.
Lancashire County Council’s director of highways and transport, Matt Townsend, emphasised the importance of ensuring a smooth transition to minimise disruption. Speaking at an LCCA meeting before Christmas, Townsend stated that the goal was to make changes “invisible” to the travelling public.
"We are making sure we get everything ready for April so that there's a controlled handover and that the people of Lancashire don't see a change – that's what we're aiming for," Townsend said. "This is about seamless transition – people shouldn’t know that this has happened."
Smooth handover planned
Under the new arrangements, the LCCA will set the strategic direction for transport policies while the existing councils will be formally contracted to deliver some functions. This commissioning model aims to ensure continuity for Lancashire residents during the initial implementation period, which is expected to last at least a year.
The LCCA is also spearheading the creation of the first county-wide local transport plan, with a draft version recently consulted upon.
Additional powers for the LCCA
The devolution deal also grants the LCCA powers beyond those previously held by the county's councils. These include the ability to introduce workplace parking levies aimed at reducing congestion in employment hubs and managing roadwork permit schemes to better coordinate projects and minimise travel disruption.
The setup is designed to allow a potential shift to a more centralised delivery model in the future. Blackburn with Darwen Council leader Phil Riley described the approach as “sensible,” while Lancashire County Council leader Stephen Atkinson said it “de-risks” the spring changes.
As April approaches, efforts will continue to ensure the transition goes smoothly.