Integrated Passenger Transport Policy - Worcestershire County ...

2.6.3 Rail is generally regarded as one of the most reliable modes of passenger transport in terms of thelevels of punctuality and reliability that it provides. The reliability and punctuality of rail services is amajor franchise commitment for the Train Operating Companies, with the DfT retaining a closewatch on the performance. Where performance drops below a certain level, the DfT can issuepenalties to enforce investment in services and infrastructure. In general, rail operationalperformance in Worcestershire continues to gradually improve, particularly where investments havebeen made in new rolling stock and infrastructure enhancement.2.6.4 The operational performance (punctuality and reliability) of Worcestershire's bus network continuesto be heavily affected by peak time congestion, particularly in Worcestershire's urban areas. Thiscauses a range of significant disbenefits including:Deterioration in public perception of passenger transport as a viable (reliable) option for travelIncreased congestion as passengers switch to the car as a more reliable journey optionReduced demand for bus travel, leading to:o Falling revenueso Deteriorating commercial performanceo Increased subsidy to maintain the network OR poorer or withdrawn servicesReduced operational efficiency of bus services which causes:o Increased costso Reduced service provision (network attrition)2.6.5 Currently Worcestershire performs poorly in terms of punctuality in terms of both frequent andnon-frequent services. There is scope for significant improvement. This will require a strongpartnership approach between the private sector bus companies (as the operators of the services)and Worcestershire County Council (as the primary provider of transport infrastructure).