Transport Minister Rosie Winterton today announced approval of £42million funding for the Greater Bristol Bus Network, meaning residents of the local area will soon benefit from new buses and better services.

Ten existing bus corridors and over 70 routes around Bristol, North Somerset, South Gloucestershire and Bath and North East Somerset will be modernised. The upgrades will include new, more comfortable low-floor and low-emission vehicles, dedicated bus lanes and improved traffic signals for buses on the roads to create faster journeys. Passengers will also benefit from new bus stops with real time information.

Speaking from College Green in Bristol, Rosie Winterton said:

"The Government is investing £42million in the Greater Bristol Bus Network to help transform people's experience of bus travel around the area, creating quicker, more comfortable and convenient journeys by bus. Real time information at stops will also help people plan their journeys more effectively and create more reliable services.

"I'm confident the new network will encourage more people to use public transport in the area, helping to tackle local congestion and pollution.

"This project is a result of the excellent partnership between the West of England local authorities and bus operators who have come together for the benefit of the travelling public. I congratulate all concerned."

The Government's contribution of £42 million will be brought up to over £70 million with funding from local authorities, as well as businesses and developers. Now that final approval has been given, work to begin building the network can start. Improvements will be completed in phases over the next three years.