FOI request detail

New Routemasters

Request ID: FOI-0179-2021
Date published: 28 May 2020

You asked

Dear Sir/Madam, I would like to make an FOI request about routes that currently and new routes that could operate with New Routemaster. It's been going around that bus usage will be reduced following covid-19, will any more routes be converted to operate with New Routemaster vehicles? As I believe that current routes using them could see a PVR cut? If the above does go ahead to happen, what routes could potentially convert?

We answered

TfL Ref: FOI-0179-2021

Thank you for your request received by Transport for London (TfL) on 11th May 2020 asking for information about Routemaster bus routes.

Your request has been considered in accordance with the requirements of the Freedom of Information Act and our information access policy.

Specifically you asked:

It's been going around that bus usage will be reduced following covid-19, will any more routes be converted to operate with New Routemaster vehicles? As I believe that current routes using them could see a PVR cut? If the above does go ahead to happen, what routes could potentially convert?”.

TfL is not able to confirm plans for vehicle use on specific bus routes until the contracting process is concluded.

The most recent changes were brought in to deter the use of public transport for all but essential travel during the lockdown, rather than in order to convert other services to New Routemasters.

These recent changes have seen bus trips reduce to around 15-20 per cent of normal levels. While keeping numbers of trips at this low level, we have been able to maintain relatively high capacity on the bus network to assist with social distancing and to provide a service for key workers and those making essential journeys.

Our approach to the regular retendering of bus routes remains the same as it was prior to the pandemic.

On a more general matter, please note that the Government has announced a series of measures to tackle the coronavirus. It is essential for London that we continue to provide a safe transport network for essential journeys.

In current circumstances, we are not able to answer FOI requests readily and we ask that you please do not make a request to us at present.

Answering FOI requests will require the use of limited resources and the attention of staff who could be supporting other essential activity. In any event, please note that our response time will be affected by the current situation.

Please see the attached information sheet for details of your right to appeal as well as information on copyright and what to do if you would like to re-use any of the information we have disclosed.

Yours sincerely,

David Wells

FOI Case Officer

FOI Case Management Team

General Counsel

Transport for London

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