South Yorkshire residents asked for their thoughts on new bus network

The survey is available online and paper copies can be collected from transport interchanges

People across Barnsley, Doncaster, Rotherham and Sheffield are being invited to share their thoughts in a survey on the "future of transport" in South Yorkshire.

South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority announced the new 'People's Network' in March, a plan to revitalise the region's public transport with a refresh to trams, buses, trains and e-bikes | Finn Smith

placeholder image — South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority announced the new 'People's Network' in March, a plan to revitalise the region's public transport with a refresh to trams, buses, trains and e-bikes | Finn Smith

The new South Yorkshire People’s Network was announced in March this year, with buses joining trams under public control, free travel for under 18s, and new orange buses.

The scheme is expected to come with new e-bike subscription and hire schemes, refurbishment of bus stops and shelters, and potential expansion of the tram network.

Now, the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA) is inviting people to share their views to shape its new local transport plan, intended to create a network that is affordable, safe, reliable and easy to use.

A bus in the rebranded South Yorkshire People's Network colours launched in March 2026. Picture: SYMCA

Residents are being asked about their experiences of travelling around South Yorkshire, including what works well, what could be improved and which transport priorities matter most to them.

Topics include affordability, reliability, accessibility, safety, walking, wheeling, cycling, public transport and connections to jobs, education, healthcare and leisure opportunities.

The survey is open to everyone, whether they travel regularly by bus, tram, train, car, bike, wheelchair or on foot, or do not travel very often.

Tom Finnegan-Smith, director of transport, strategy and policy at SYMCA, said: "We're building a transport network designed around the people who use it, and that means listening to the people of South Yorkshire every step of the way.

Buses in South Yorkshire will be "molten orange" from day one of bus franchising in 2027. | LDRS

"Whether you travel by bus, tram, train, bike, on foot, by wheelchair or by car, your experiences matter. This survey is an opportunity to tell us what's working, what's not, and what would make the biggest difference to how you get around.

"The feedback we receive will help shape our new Local Transport Plan and guide the next phase of the South Yorkshire People's Network, ensuring it reflects the needs and priorities of communities across Barnsley, Doncaster, Rotherham and Sheffield."

The survey is available online and paper copies can also be collected from transport interchanges, with prepaid return envelopes provided.

The survey closes on October 31, 2026.