Transport engagement sessions help shape future transport priorities

The Integrated Passenger Transport Unit (IPTU) recently welcomed councillors, district council representatives, parish and town councils, bus user groups and community representatives from across Essex to its Summer 2026 Transport Engagement Session.

Held as part of IPTU's ongoing stakeholder engagement programme, the event provided an opportunity for attendees to discuss local transport priorities, raise concerns, and explore opportunities for future improvements across the Essex transport network.

The session was opened by Councillor Mark Webster, Cabinet Member for Highways and Infrastructure who welcomed attendees before they engaged directly with officers from across the IPTU and representatives from community transport and commercial operators

A total of 95 stakeholders attended the event, representing communities from across the county. In advance of the session, stakeholders were invited to submit questions and areas of concern to help shape the discussions. Thirty-one stakeholders submitted questions ahead of the event, providing valuable insight into local transport challenges and opportunities.

Discussions throughout the day highlighted a number of recurring themes, including:

• Local bus service provision and connectivity

• Rural transport challenges

• Reliability and performance of services

• Passenger information and accessibility

• Bus stop and shelter infrastructure

• Community-led transport opportunities through the Love Your Bus scheme

Attendees had the opportunity to speak directly with officers from across IPTU, including teams responsible for local bus services, infrastructure, DigiGo, TravelEssex, passenger information and community engagement.

A total of 94 individual interactions were recorded during the event, with many enquiries resolved on the day and others identified for further investigation and follow-up.

Feedback received from stakeholders will help inform future service planning, infrastructure improvements and community-led transport initiatives across Essex. The session also highlighted strong interest in improving local connectivity and ensuring transport services continue to support residents, businesses and growing communities.

The Integrated Passenger Transport Unit would like to thank everyone who attended, submitted questions and shared their views. The feedback received provides valuable insight into local transport priorities and will help inform future transport planning and service development.

The Summer Transport Engagement Session forms part of IPTU's ongoing commitment to working collaboratively with communities, elected Members, transport operators and stakeholders to better understand local transport needs and identify opportunities for future improvement.

For the latest travel information, transport news and future engagement opportunities, visit www.travelessex.co.uk