Decision - Covid 19 Bus Network Recovery Plan

RESOLVED:

(1)             That a short-term (up to two years) extension to the existing supported bus service contracts for services 37/37B, 21, Breeze to the Downs and school services be agreed;

(2)             That it be agreed to re-procure temporary short-term (up to two years) contracts for routes 16, 47, 52 and 57;

(3)             That it be agreed to extend contracts for routes 16, 47, 52 & 57 for no longer than the end of April 2022 should retendering not be possible before September 2021 or should the tender process for these services be unsuccessful;

(4)             That it be agreed to continue to provide additional financial support to operators where necessary in light of the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic for the duration of the contracts; and

(5)             That the postponement of the procurement process for long-term contracts for all supported bus service routes from 2021 to 2023 or sooner if there is a service need and/or market conditions allow be agreed.