I was in Runnymede last year in Windsor, where I attended the CILT national conference. After the event had concluded, I made a point of stopping by the historic site where the Magna Carta was signed, or to translate, “The Great Charter of Freedoms,” signed by King John on 15th June 1215. Many consider the Magna Carta as one of the most important documents in English history.
The charter marked the road to:
- Individual freedom,
- Parliamentary democracy,
- Supremacy of law.
The charter effectively suspended the outbreak of civil war, as King John was forced to meet with a group of barons who demanded that he sign a document to rein in his arbitrary behaviour. From that moment on, no English king could act in a tyrannical manner to erode the rights of free men or dominate the Church.
You are probably wondering what this historic event and free history lesson have to do with today’s bus industry in 2025. Quite simply, the principles of the Great Charter have been applied to the basic rights and expectations of today’s modern bus users. To emphasise the point, I was fortunate enough to very recently attend a meeting in Northampton, where I experienced my first involvement with West Northamptonshire’s Enhanced Partnership Board. I had been invited to join in my capacity as a CILT Board Member and Trustee, as well as the Chairman of the Bus and Coach Forum and Chairman of Busmark, the UK’s largest bus and coach benchmarking club.
I must say that it was a very positive event and experience, expertly organised by Edwin Swaris, FCILT – an extremely experienced bus operator and local authority employee.
Edwin has brought a strong sense of purpose, vision and partnership to the comprehensive group of key stakeholders. The foundation of the partnership is West Northamptonshire Local Authority, alongside Stagecoach and Arriva, supported by a range of essential organisations that complete the picture. The Enhanced Partnership represents a truly collaborative approach, where the council, key agencies, and bus operators share responsibilities and work towards common goals. This partnership is designed to address challenges and enhance the overall quality of the transport network. By working in harmony with the bus operators, the partnership strives to deliver a reliable, efficient, and enjoyable experience for all passengers. Whether individuals are commuting to work, travelling to school, or exploring the county, the aim is to make every journey as smooth and pleasant as possible. The partnership’s charter clearly sets out the standards and expectations that passengers can rely upon.
For the those travelling on the buses, they can expect 5 key pledges.
1. Service and Information:
This includes timetables and route information displayed at all key bus stops, updated as quickly as possible. Bus timetables, route maps, and travel information will also be available on the bus companies’ and councils’ websites. The number of timetable and route changes will be limited to help promote a stable network. Finally, real-time information will be available at Northampton Bus Station and at key on-street bus stop locations.
2. Reliability:
All drivers undergo regular training to ensure the highest standards. Reliable and punctual bus services will operate across West Northants. Additionally, if the last bus of the day fails to run, passengers can claim the cost of a taxi fare home (subject to the bus company’s investigation on a case-by-case basis).
3. Service Provision:
Bus lanes and other bus priority measures will be maintained at the highest levels, ensuring easy access for buses. Regular bus services will be designed to be sustainable and connect passengers to destinations across West Northants.
4. Fares and Ticketing:
Ticket options will be easy to understand, with passengers able to pay onboard using cash or contactless card. Some bus companies may also have apps where tickets can be purchased in advance to help speed up boarding times. Changes to bus fares and timetables will be displayed in advance, both onboard buses and on the company’s website.
5. Bus Service and Facilities:
All buses will be cleaned to a high standard. They will also be comfortable, reliable, and maintained to standards approved by the DVSA. Drivers will be professional, courteous, and considerate of passengers’ needs. Buses will be accessible, and drivers will be trained to offer assistance to those who need it. Buses will provide space for at least one wheelchair or buggy; if this space is unavailable, drivers will provide clear advice on alternative options. Bus stops will be kept clean and in a good state of repair. Finally, CCTV will be available on most buses and at Northampton Bus Station for passengers’ safety and security.
What the partnership asks from passengers:
Firstly, report broken or damaged shelters. Secondly, be polite and respectful to the driver and other passengers on the bus. Thirdly, do not leave litter on the bus – take it with you. Fourthly, do not vandalise or damage bus stops, shelters, information displays, or vehicles. Fifthly, do not smoke on the bus or in bus shelters, including e-cigarettes. Lastly, follow the guidance of the bus driver and please do not distract the driver.
To be honest, this is, in my experience, one of the best Passenger Charters I have seen in my career. And in truth, I have seen a few over the decades. It is simple, comprehensive, and professional, and I would commend it to any bus company looking to establish a professional Bus Passenger Charter. I am sure that King John would wholeheartedly approve!
Written by Austin Birks
