Central London buses now average below 7 mph. The average City of London bus speed is 6.6 mph, while Westminster and Camden buses average 7 mph. These low speeds are discouraging Londoners from using buses, slowing progress toward the Mayor’s sustainable travel target, according to London TravelWatch.
Slow buses annoy passengers and reduce use
Over 1,500 Londoners were surveyed by London TravelWatch about their bus experiences. Slow travel was the biggest issue. Some Londoners think buses are too slow, especially during rush hours.
Buses, the most popular mode of public transportation with 4.6 million daily trips, are slowing down. Overcrowded, slow buses deter Londoners, and 37% reported an increase in anti-social behavior.
Bus Speed Declines in All Boroughs
The report shows bus speeds have dropped in every London borough over the past decade. External London buses average 10.3 mph, up from 8.1 mph in inner London. The speeds are not ideal, and urgent action is needed to keep buses efficient and accessible.
Proposals for Bus Lane Enhancements and Fare Protection in London TravelWatch recommends adding bus lanes, especially in busy areas, and penalizing drivers who block them. These measures would reduce delays and speed travel, they say. The report also advises TfL to lower fares. London has the lowest bus fare in the country at £1.75, making it affordable for public transit users.
Bus Journey Goals: Cleaner, Safer, Faster
London TravelWatch stresses on-board improvement. Cleaner buses, safer environments, and more reliable travel times would encourage Londoners to take buses. Zero-emission bus models are being tested by TfL to make them greener.
The report makes five suggestions:
Bus travel faster: More lanes and better enforcement could reduce delays.
More countdown screens and real-time updates would help passengers plan their trips.
Increase bus comfort and safety: Cleaner, safer buses can improve travel.
Work with boroughs: TfL should work with boroughs to make changes.
Encourage innovation: The report urges TfL to consider new bus network improvements.
Path to Sustainable Public Transport
TfL is working toward Mayor Sadiq Khan’s 2041 goal of 80% of London journeys by foot, bike, or public transport. The current rate is 64.2%. With the right improvements, buses could help meet this target and reduce road congestion.
TfL will add 25 km of bus lanes by 2025. The recent additions of Uxbridge Road and Bowes Road lanes are early steps toward a faster and smoother London bus service.
Londoners hope TfL implements these recommendations for faster, cleaner, and more reliable bus rides.
