Concerns over rising anti-social behaviour on buses are contributing to a decline in public transport use across the United Kingdom, raising questions about the impact on efforts to improve air quality. Richard Holden, the shadow transport secretary, highlighted that deteriorating passenger experience and safety fears are prompting fewer people to choose buses as their mode of travel.
Holden pointed to recent figures showing a 24 percent increase in anti-social incidents on buses between 2024 and 2025, amid an ongoing 12 percent drop in bus ridership over the past two decades. He characterised much of the disruptive behaviour as nuisances rather than serious criminal offences, including loud music, vaping, and inconsiderate actions such as placing shoes on seats. These behaviours, he said, undermine passengers’ comfort and sense of security.
In an essay for the Conservative Environment Network (CEN), Holden argued that unreliable services, marked by reduced frequency, route cuts, and uncertainty about bus arrival times, further erode public confidence in buses. He called for enhanced measures to address these issues, including expanded use of closed-circuit television (CCTV) on buses and at stops, along with visible staff patrols to discourage anti-social behaviour and reassure passengers.
“To raise standards and renew public faith in the safe, comfortable journeys on which bus users should be able to rely, there must be genuine enforcement both at bus stops and on board,” Holden wrote. He also recommended more robust evening and late-night services supported by accurate real-time information, which could reduce anxiety among passengers waiting outdoors.
Similar enforcement strategies are already in place on parts of the rail network, where patrols and supporting legislation help maintain order. Holden suggested comparable approaches could significantly improve the bus travel experience.
The issue of public transport affordability has also been a point of contention. During their time in government, the Conservative Party introduced a £2 bus fare cap, which has since increased to £3 under the Labour administration.
Separately, Robert Jenrick, a member of Parliament who recently defected from the Conservatives to the Reform party, has publicly criticised fare evasion, describing it as undermining social cohesion.
Isabel Goodwin, head of outreach at the Conservative Environment Network, emphasised that as Andy Burnham’s anticipated prime ministerial ambitions gain attention, the Conservatives must articulate a clear alternative vision for regional growth. This vision, she said, should focus on reducing bureaucratic barriers, encouraging private investment, and empowering local communities.
Together, these perspectives highlight ongoing debate over how to restore confidence in public transport while supporting environmental and economic objectives.