Big wins are rolling in for Lincolnshire’s public transport network!

According to the latest national survey by independent watchdog Transport Focus, Lincolnshire boasts the second-highest passenger satisfaction rate in the entire country—a massive thumbs-up from local commuters and visitors alike. With 91% of passengers reporting a positive experience, it’s clear that the county’s investment in public transport is paying off.

Local Success Backed by National Praise

The survey collected feedback from 48,000 journeys across England and looked at all aspects of bus travel—from comfort and punctuality to value for money. Only Derby scored higher, with a 92% satisfaction rate, placing Lincolnshire in proud second place.

This achievement is especially impressive for a county often considered rural and remote. It highlights how smart, targeted improvements can make a real difference, no matter the setting.

Driving the Change: What’s Behind the Success?

Councillor Richard Davies, Executive Councillor for Highways, Transport and IT at Lincolnshire County Council, credits a suite of improvements for the high score:

  • Better infrastructure: Modernised bus stops and live arrival boards.
  • Innovative technology: A vastly improved real-time travel app.
  • Affordable fares: Leveraging the bus fare cap to expand and lower-cost routes.
  • Increased frequency: More services, especially around towns like Grantham and Gainsborough, where some routes saw over 60% more passengers.

“These results show real demand—and people are happy to use the bus, even in rural places like Lincolnshire,” said Councillor Davies.

Passengers Are Feeling the Difference

Transport Focus director Louise Collins praised Lincolnshire and other top-performing areas for showing what’s possible when authorities, operators, and government collaborate with passengers in mind.

“The positive changes seen across bus services in England have boosted overall passenger satisfaction,” she said. “The results from areas like Derby, East Sussex, and Lincolnshire show the power of listening to what passengers want.”

A Model for Rural Transport

Traditionally, rural areas have struggled with maintaining consistent and appealing public transport. However, Lincolnshire is showing that rural transport can thrive with wise investment and community-focused planning.

More than just numbers, this success is a sign that buses are reclaiming their role as vital community connectors—helping people get to work, school, medical appointments, and social activities affordably and reliably.

What’s Next?

With initiatives like the Bus Services (No.2) Bill on the horizon and further government investment in public transport expected, Lincolnshire’s example could pave the way for even better services in the future.

Graham Vidler, chief executive of the Confederation of Passenger Transport, summed it up best:

“It’s fantastic to see bus passenger satisfaction on the rise – a testament to the excellent partnerships and dedication of everyone working in the industry.”

As we move into the rest of 2025, Lincolnshire is well on track to lead the way in rural transport innovation and make buses the first choice for more and more people across the region.