Devon bus passenger numbers rise across the county as partnership delivers results

Bus passenger numbers across Devon increased by 13 per cent in the year to March 2025, according to new data published by GOV.UK.

The figures relate to services operating under the Devon Bus Enhanced Partnership, which brings together Devon County Council, Stagecoach South West, smaller bus operators, the NHS and education providers.

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The partnership was also recognised at the UK Bus Awards 2025, where it received a Silver award in the Partnership for Excellence category.

According to partners involved in the scheme, more than £17million has been invested through the Bus Service Improvement Plan (BSIP). 

This funding has been used to introduce new and improved routes, deliver bus priority measures such as bus lanes and bus gates, and launch the DevonBus branding across the county. 

Funding has also been secured for 60 zero-emission electric buses through the government’s ZEBRA2 programme.

Peter Knight, Managing Director of Stagecoach South West, said the increase in passenger numbers reflected joint working across the county.

“The continued growth in passenger numbers shows that when we invest together, we deliver together,” he said.

“Our partnership with Devon County Council, local operators and wider stakeholders is transforming bus travel across the county.

“We are proud to play a central role in building a cleaner, more connected network that more people can rely on every day.”

Devon County Council said the partnership approach was helping to improve access to public transport while supporting wider environmental aims.

Councillor Jacqi Hodgson, the council’s cabinet member for climate change and biodiversity, said the increase in bus use showed the impact of collaborative working.

“This rise in bus use is a clear endorsement of the work being delivered through the Devon Bus Enhanced Partnership,” she said.

“By working collaboratively, we are improving services, expanding sustainable transport choices and investing in zero-emission vehicles.”

Don McIntosh, managing director of Tally Ho! Coaches and a representative for smaller operators on the partnership board, said the scheme had helped operators of all sizes contribute.

“The Devon Bus Enhanced Partnership has created a forum where operators of every size can contribute meaningfully,” he said.

“The recent growth in patronage and national recognition reflect a genuinely collaborative approach.”

The partnership said it aims to build on recent investment and continue encouraging greater use of public transport across Devon.