Summary
A report found that young people in Gloucestershire and Oxfordshire are discouraged from using public transport due to its high cost, accessibility issues, and safety concerns. The report surveyed over 900 young people, revealing that cost is seen as the biggest obstacle, followed by accessibility.
Key Facts
- The report is from the Gloucestershire Community Rail Partnership.
- Over 900 young people aged 13-25 participated in the survey and forums.
- 44% identified cost as the main barrier to using public transport.
- 18% said accessibility is a significant issue.
- Young people have raised concerns about public transport being unreliable, with frequent delays and cancellations.
- A train journey from Gloucester to Birmingham has increased in price by 40% in recent years.
- Local transport companies are considering recommendations from the report to make services more appealing to young people.
- The UK government allocated £8 million to support and improve bus services in Gloucestershire.
