A study is made of fixed route bus services operating in towns with populations in the range 5000 to 30000. Analysis of eight such services is carried out to identify and, where possible quantify those factors which favour their operation. The study was undertaken to assess the potential for and advisability of extending this type of operation to other small towns. Quantitative assessment of the study services is based on the assumed objective of maximising the number of bus passengers, subject to financial constraint. The implications of this objective are analysed and it is thought to be compatible with the corporate aim of a public transport undertaking and the social aim of a local authority. It is concluded that, although in general such services are not profitable, their provision can be well justified provided that the selection of the town and the service design take sufficient account of the factors discussed. (Author/publisher)
Abstract