The Blackburn with Darwen Council has announced its intention to go out to tender for the reintroduction of sheltered housing services and a new Blackburn circular bus route. This move is part of the council’s £3.7 million Bus Service Improvement Plan (BSIP), which aims to enhance public transportation in the borough.
Background
In 2015/16, the council was forced to remove bus services linking sheltered accommodation with Blackburn town center due to funding restrictions. This decision led to numerous complaints from residents living in sheltered accommodation, who were unable to use their bus passes to travel to the town center. The council has since recognized the importance of providing public transportation services to these residents and has committed to reintroducing some of the lost services.
New Bus Route and Sheltered Housing Services
The council’s executive board approved the package of services in February, which includes the reintroduction of sheltered housing services and a new Blackburn circular bus route. The new route will link various areas of the town, including Warrenside Close, Openshaw, Holly Court, Mandela Court, and Blackburn Bus Station, as well as Hornby Court, Bridgewater Court, St Phillips Court, and Blackburn Bus Station. The route will also connect Blackburn Bus Station with Spring Bank Court, Albion Mill, Brackendale, Tockholes, and Belmont.
The reintroduction of sheltered housing services is a significant development for residents living in these areas. The services will provide a vital link between sheltered accommodation and the town center, allowing residents to access essential services, shops, and amenities. The council has recognized the importance of providing public transportation services to these residents, who often rely on buses to get around.
Procurement Process
The council has launched a procurement process for the sheltered housing services and circular bus route, with a 12-month contract period and an option to extend for up to two years if additional funding becomes available. The council is seeking operators who can provide high-quality services that meet the needs of residents.
Operators interested in bidding for the services will need to review the council’s procurement process and requirements. The council has outlined two options for the new orbital route, which will depend on the costs of reintroducing the services linking sheltered accommodation. Option 1 includes a full service, Monday to Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, while Option 2 would only operate 5A and 5C Monday to Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, without including 55A and 55C.
Benefits for Residents and Businesses
The reintroduction of sheltered housing services and the new Blackburn circular bus route will have numerous benefits for residents and businesses in the area. For residents, the services will provide a convenient and affordable way to access essential services, shops, and amenities. For businesses, the improved public transportation network will provide a boost to the local economy, making it easier for people to get to work, school, and other destinations.
Conclusion
The Blackburn with Darwen Council’s decision to reintroduce sheltered housing services and a new Blackburn circular bus route is a significant development for the borough. The services will provide a vital link between sheltered accommodation and the town center, allowing residents to access essential services, shops, and amenities. The council’s commitment to improving public transportation in the borough is a testament to its dedication to enhancing the quality of life for residents.
Operators interested in bidding for the services should review the council’s procurement process and requirements carefully. Residents and businesses should also keep an eye on the council’s website and local news for updates on the procurement process and service reintroduction. By working together, the council, operators, and residents can create a public transportation network that meets the needs of the community and supports the local economy.
Recommendations
For operators interested in bidding for the services:
Review the council’s procurement process and requirements carefully.
Consider submitting a bid for one or both of the services, depending on your company’s capabilities and resources.
Review the options outlined in the report (Option 1 and Option 2) and determine which one best suits your business.
Ensure that your bid meets the council’s requirements and provides a high-quality service that meets the needs of residents.
For residents living in sheltered accommodation:
Keep an eye on the council’s website and local news for updates on the procurement process and service reintroduction.
Consider providing feedback to the council on the proposed services and any concerns or suggestions you may have.
Encourage other residents to do the same, to ensure that their voices are heard.
For local businesses and stakeholders:
Review the potential benefits of the new bus route and reintroduced sheltered housing services for your business or community.
Consider providing feedback to the council on the proposed services and any concerns or suggestions you may have.
Encourage other businesses and stakeholders to do the same, to ensure that their voices are heard.
By working together, we can create a public transportation network that meets the needs of the community and supports the local economy.