The independent survey, conducted by Transport Focus, captured feedback from over 1,100 Oxfordshire bus users throughout the year. Passengers rated their experiences across key aspects of their journeys—from punctuality and value for money to driver behaviour and onboard comfort.
Strong Satisfaction Across the Network
Oxfordshire achieved an impressive 84% overall satisfaction rate, up from 78% in 2023 and slightly above the national average of 83%.
The county also stands out for its commitment to accessibility: satisfaction among disabled passengers (84%) is nearly identical to that of non-disabled passengers (85%), highlighting the success of inclusive transport initiatives.
Key Highlights:
• Driver Experience: 90% of passengers were satisfied with the bus driver, above the national average of 87%.
• Value for Money: 71% of fare-paying passengers were satisfied with value for money, rising to 77% among single ticket users.
• Information and Ticketing: Satisfaction with service information rose to 72%, up from 62% in 2023.
These results reflect the ongoing investment in Oxfordshire’s Bus Service Improvement Plan (BSIP) and the strength of the County Council’s partnership with local bus operators.
Areas for Improvement
While the results are encouraging, the survey also highlights areas where further progress is needed:
• Journey Times: Satisfaction with journey duration was 81%, below both the rural average (84%) and the national average (83%). Increased congestion in Oxford due to temporary works is believed to be a contributing factor.
• Punctuality: 78% of passengers were satisfied with punctuality, indicating room for improvement, especially during peak hours.
• Bus Stop Facilities: 66% of respondents were satisfied with the condition and maintenance of bus stops, suggesting scope for improvement in infrastructure.
Looking Ahead
As Oxfordshire continues to deliver on its BSIP commitments, these insights will help shape future enhancements. The County Council remains dedicated to working with operators and communities to ensure bus services are accessible, reliable, and responsive to passenger needs.
