Trrl Lr 840

The recent expansion pf postbus services in Britain is discussed. The services which have emerged are varied in detailed character, but some basic types of operation are identified, and the results of users and of operational surveys of examples of the main types are summerised. services are found to be capable of providing practical and reliable passenger tarnsport, acceptable to those dependent on public transport, without disrupting mail services. The economic aspects of postbus operation are assessed; the total costs of services, and of certain possible alternatives, are investigated, and the financial performance of some existing Scottish routes is analysed. Postbuses rely heavily on subsidies from central government, and may require additional local support, but nevertheless can provide a relatively low cost service, particularly on long routes.The general potential of postbuses is considered. Optimum rural public transport arrangments depend very much on local circumstances. When practical, postbuses can offer good value in many situations, and scope exists for further development