I am delighted to share positive developments which will benefit our residents.

It has been encouraging to see signs that new mayor Cllr Helen Godwin is starting to deliver a ‘reset’ for the West of England, working closely with the Leaders of Bristol, South Gloucestershire and myself. It’s key that we ensure that this reset is mirrored in how we govern the combined authority, and I am thrilled to be chosen as the first deputy mayor so that I can directly influence how we lay the foundations for future sustainable success

The government spending review confirmed that the West of England Mayoral Combined Authority (WECA) has secured a record £752-million to invest in better transport. From progressing mass transit options to electrifying our bus fleet across Bath and North East Somerset (B&NES), this investment will help us tackle costly congestion, achieve our net zero targets, and make it easier for people to choose public transport, walking and cycling. On top of the work that’s already being achieved in B&NES, this is welcome news for our region.

The Chancellor’s extension of the national £3 bus fare cap until March 2027 is also very welcome. Making public transport more accessible for young people widens their horizons. Young people leaving care, aged up to 25, will soon be able to travel free on buses in the wider region. This decision by WECA is a great example of how we can work together for better outcomes. This direct support helps removes a barrier for some of our most vulnerable young people and I welcome this funding. In Bath and North East Somerset our commitment to getting services right for care experienced young people has been recently acknowledged by Ofsted and I am proud that the council has made leaving care a protected characteristic and signed up to the Care Leaver Covenant.

All children under the age of 16 will be able to travel for free on buses in the West of England Combined Authority and North Somerset during the school summer holidays.

School holidays are an expensive time of year for all families and this great initiative will not only help with the cost-of-living but also encourage local families to get out and explore our region’s amazing attractions, like the Roman Baths, which is free for B&NES residents who are Discovery Card holders, as well our historic cities, market towns, free parks, and the nature-rich countryside we are fortunate to have right across the West of England.

I hope many families will hop on the bus this summer and explore places that are literally on their own doorstep with the kids.

Kevin Guy, Leader of Bath and North East Somerset Council