Information sessions for transport operators as significant changes planned

Local transport operators are being encouraged to attend information sessions next week to find out about major changes being planned in the way public and community transport services are provided.

Scottish Borders Community Planning Partnership (CPP) is launching a new sustainable transport framework covering all passenger transport services for use by all CPP organisations.

The CPP includes Scottish Borders Council, NHS Borders, Borders College, housing associations and registered social landlords, Police Scotland, Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, voluntary sector organisations and other related groups.

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It is anticipated the framework agreement will be awarded early in the new year, and local firms are being encouraged to tender for the work.

A series of information sessions will take place for operators next week. These are all being held from 6pm until 7.30pm:

They are being held for bus and coach operators at the BGH education centre on Monday and at Lanark Lodge Day Centre, Duns on Tuesday.

For taxi operators they are taking place and Lanark Lodge on Wednesday and the BGH education centre on Thursday.

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The transport framework is part of a collaborative approach to the planning, co-ordination and commissioning of transport being taken forward by the CPP’s newly established strategic transport board.

Chair of the board Helen Forsyth, chief executive of Berwickshire Housing Association, said: “As a CPP we recognise how important transport is in the Borders and the significant issues people face in getting around.

“By working together to plan and co-ordinate transport activity we think we can address some of these issues and make real improvements in transport in our area.

“This joint framework is a significant milestone for the CPP in collaborative working and offers real opportunities to co-ordinate transport services more effectively and efficiently.”

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The framework agreement will be split into four lots: short notice and urgent transport; mainstream education transport to and from schools and colleges; additional needs, social care, healthcare and other transport; and supported local bus services.

The transport framework will be tendered through Public Contracts Scotland at: www.publiccontractsscotland.gov.uk

For more information contact the Council’s Corporate Procurement Service on 01835 825579 or visit: www.scotborders.gov.uk/procurement