Transport changes in Scots reorganization
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MAJOR changes in responsibility for public transport in Scotland are explained in two circulars published by the Scottish Development Department this week. The reorganization of local Government — implemented in England and Wales on April 1 — takes effect in Scotland on the same date next year. Under the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973 responsibility for public transport co-ordination passes to the new regional and island authorities.
Circular 48/1974 lists the following as being the most important of the new responsibilities; assessing levels of service and the economic and social justification for supporting such services; coordinating passenger transport; co-ordinating services between local authority areas; and fixing fare levels. The Circular says that consideration of these points will call for the fullest discussion with the Scottish Bus Group. It suggests that there would be advantages in a local authority-SBG liaison arrangement in each area. SBG is prepared to second specialized staff to assist with the formulation of policy where required.
The other circular, 47/1974, deals with the establishment of the Transport Policy and programmes procedure already familiar in England and Wales. Normally TP Ps would be prepared in December for implementation in the following year, but the Secretary of State for Scotland realizes that it is unrealistic to expect them to be prepared by December this year for use from April 1975. Instead, estimates by existing local authorities for road and transport expenditure are to be adapted by his staff and forwarded to the new authorities. These will form the basis for approval of a capital expenditure programme in 1975-76. The first TPP proper will be for 197677, and will be due for submission next summer.
Copies of the circular are obtainable from the Department, Local transport planning division, 14 Waterloo Place, Edinburgh EH I 3YZ. Copies have already been sent to local authorities and the bus operating associations.