BASINGSTOKE MP Maria Miller has called for new house-building plans and residential estates to incorporate bus service plans to encourage new residents to use public transport.

She was speaking after meeting Stagecoach representatives to discuss bus provision in Basingstoke.

She said the bus network has a crucial role to play in reducing road congestion, air pollution and helping the community achieve its net zero goal.

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“Plans for more electric vehicles will be an important way for Stagecoach to play their part,” she said.

“With the fastest ageing population in Hampshire, local buses will be increasingly important to many more residents who start to rely on public transport rather than their car to get about. But buses have a much bigger role to play.

“New residential estates need to encourage more new residents to use public transport rather than their car. New house building plans should incorporate clear ways to encourage public transport use rather than private cars.”

The MP said the Department of Transport’s £2 bus fare cap scheme has shown how lower prices can change behaviour and boost passenger numbers.

“It’s welcome this is being extended until the end of June. As new housing schemes are being brought forward, the learnings from this borough-wide £2 bus fare scheme need to be incorporated as part of developer travel schemes,” she added.