This afternoon, the Minister for Roads and Local Transport Richard Holden MP visited Stoke-on-Trent Central for a roundtable discussion concerning the city's bus network. Regrettably, I was unable to personally welcome him to the city as I am currently engaged in parliamentary duties on the Energy Bill Committee, where I am scrutinising the legislation. However, Matt from my office in Hanley attended the roundtable on my behalf, which took place at the City Centre Bus Station.
The roundtable was attended by a range of participants, including the Minister, representatives from The Potteries buses, Matt from my office, officials from the Department for Transport (DFT), Jon Rouse (Director of Stoke-on-Trent City Council), Councillor Amjid Wazir, Jack Brereton MP, and Jonathan Gullis MP. The discussions primarily focused on the progress being made on the Bus Improvement Plan and how the £31.7 million government funding for the bus improvement plan is being spent to improve the city's bus services.
We've made significant strides since my election in 2019, securing key funding including the £29 million from the Transforming Cities Fund for local bus and rail services, and an additional £31 million from the Bus Service Improvement Fund. The MPs for Stoke-on-Tent have been steadfast in our mission to ensure Stoke-on-Trent receives its fair share of government investment.
I have always believed that the people of Stoke-on-Trent deserve public transport that is not only efficient and affordable but also operates seven days a week. Today's positive discussions have cemented my belief that we are steering our city towards a brighter future of improved public transportation.
