Big thanks to Go Cornwall. But passengers deserve better  

“Go Cornwall deserves immense credit for offering to plug the enormous gap left by First Bus”, said local MP Andrew George, “But Ministers must now recognise that Cornwall cannot maintain its public transport infrastructure based on such a climate of uncertainty, “sticking plaster” and “make-do” solutions.

Andrew said, “The First Bus announcement was dreadful news. But it’s marvellous that Richard Stevens at Go Cornwall has already indicated his willingness to step in where First Bus announced a quick exit.

“Central Government invests billions in the wraparound public transport services of Greater London. £19 billion on the Elizabeth line alone.

“In comparison, Cornwall’s public transport is characterised by piecemeal uncertainty and the vagaries of short-term commercial decision-making, and the consequential stop-start services.

“Rather than being constantly treated like the “country cousin” by the “Metropolitan elite”, it’s time for the Government to give Cornwall support equivalent to the Capital city. To back a long-term plan, to build confidence in the future of our services, which will then drive more passengers onto our buses, encourage greater investment and more comprehensive services.

“It’s great that Go Cornwall has stepped in, but we cannot carry on like this. MPs and the Council must meet transport Ministers soon to sort this out.”