Wiltshire bus shelters to get biggest investment in 20 years

By Local Democracy Reporter Peter Davison

Bus shelters in Wiltshire are to get their biggest investment in 20 years, following a windfall of government cash.

At a meeting of Wiltshire Council’s cabinet on last month members heard that between £6 and £8 million could be spent on bus shelters and infrastructure thanks to funds from the Government’s Local Authority Bus Grant. 

The council has around 4,000 bus stops and 800 bus shelters, many of which are in a poor state of repair. 

“We’ve had no real significant investment in bus infrastructure for up to 20 years and now we’ve got around about £8 million to spend up to the year 2029/30,” said Martin Smith, cabinet member for highways. 

Nick Murry, who chairs the council’s environment select committee, said his committee had questioned whether “the significant number of bus stops maintained by town and parish councils might be included,” and was told they would be considered. 

The money will not just be spent on upgrading shelters. Poles and ‘flags’ and timetable cases will also be included in the refurbishment scheme. 

The meeting also heard that the scheme could include electronic timetables at major bus terminals, such as railway stations. 

Authority will now be granted to the council’s director of highways and transport to appoint a supplier. 

Following the meeting, Cllr Smith said, “Buses are a lifeline for many people in Wiltshire. By committing to this investment, we are delivering on our promise to provide high-quality, accessible bus shelters that meet the needs of local people and encourage greater use of public transport. 

“High-quality, well-designed shelters will offer better protection from the elements, improved seating, and clear travel information, making the experience of waiting for a bus safer and more pleasant. 

“Encouraging more people to choose public transport is vital for reducing congestion, cutting carbon emissions, and connecting communities – and investing in infrastructure is a key part of that strategy.” 

Work will begin during spring 2026, with a rolling programme of refurbishment taking place until 2031.