Rural Transport Seminar Highlights Challenges and Innovation

The Rural Services Network was delighted to host its latest Member Exclusive Live Seminar on Rural Transport, last week. The session brought together expert speakers and an engaged member audience to explore the vital role that transport plays in enabling rural communities to thrive.

Kerry Booth, RSN Chief Executive, opened the session by underlining that rural transport is much more than buses — it is a lifeline that connects residents to education, employment, health services, and social opportunities. Yet persistent underfunding and outdated metrics mean rural communities often face limited and fragile provision.

Our speakers provided a rich and practical overview of both challenges and emerging solutions:

• Professor Stephen Joseph, University of Hertfordshire, highlighted new thinking and practical examples from across the UK — from mobility hubs and active travel to integrated public transport and demand-responsive services — and stressed the importance of a just transition for rural mobility.
• Karl Melville, Assistant Director of Highways and Transport at Cumberland Council, gave an in-depth view of Cumbria’s current transport strategy. He outlined innovative pilots such as an "on-demand Uber-style" service, major investment in community transport, and creative approaches to community engagement and service design — all amid funding uncertainties and capacity pressures.
• Nick Mills and Charlotte Morley from the Community Transport Association presented new research on inclusive transport for disabled children and young people. They highlighted how community transport operators can play a key role in bridging accessibility gaps — particularly vital in rural areas where mainstream transport options are sparse.

Discussion with members reflected a shared concern about rural transport’s future — and a shared ambition to innovate, influence policy, and unlock fairer funding and smarter solutions.

Thank you to our speakers, contributors, and member attendees for making this such a valuable session.

Next Member Exclusive Seminar: Rural Housing — Wednesday 9 July 2025

We are now preparing for our next RSN Member Exclusive Live Seminar, which will focus on Rural Affordable Housing, taking place in July.

As ever, the session will not be recorded — so members are encouraged to attend live to benefit fully from the insight and discussion.

Book your place here now or share this opportunity with a colleague.