TfL Ref: FOI-2321-1617

Thank you for your email received by us on 22 February 2017 asking for information about trial changes to the bus network.

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

Unfortunately we do not hold the information you have requested as TfL does not trial changes to the bus network, so there is no data on “trialled” routes or criteria for us doing this.

All bus route alterations, including extensions or changes to the routes as well as frequency alterations, are based around our ongoing analysis of passenger travel patterns and the level of demand for services. This review is an ongoing evaluation of the service, using a variety of source data.

TfL is committed to improving network accessibility, and a part of this does review the potential to extend or re-route services into previously unserved locations, or to improve interchange between services.

We do not propose extensions to services on a “trials basis”, as any route extension would be carried out as a part of our review process. This sees us constantly tailoring bus services as and when appropriate, either introducing new routes or modifying existing services to satisfy a current or emerging need. For example when new residential properties are developed we would look to see how well an area is served, and whether improvements can be made to the network. Such changes would be sought as a permanent change however.

For more information please see our service planning guidelines (attached), which show how we plan the network and how we will review services when changes occur.

Please see the attached information sheet for details of your right to appeal.

Yours sincerely

Paulina Tuffour
FOI Case Officer

FOI Case Management Team
General Counsel
Transport for London