The Transport, Environment, Communities & Climate Change Select Committee of Buckinghamshire Council is scheduled to convene on Wednesday 4 November 2026. The meeting's agenda includes discussions on the Ouse Valley Water Corridor Water Resources Management Plan, the East West Rail Train Maintenance Depot, and updates on the Bus Service Improvement Programme and Home to School Transport.

Ouse Valley Water Corridor Water Resources Management Plan

The committee is set to consider a motion regarding the Ouse Valley Water Corridor Water Resources Management Plan. This plan, which was brought before the council on 16 September 2026, is being assessed for its potential to contribute to water transfer and storage, flood resilience in the upper Great Ouse catchment, wetland habitat creation, and public amenity. The report pack indicates that Anglian Water has assessed the Buckingham Canal Society's restoration concept option but has concluded that it offers insufficient water resource or flood management benefits. The council's position statement supports this conclusion, recommending no further action be taken on the proposal. Councillor Robin Stuchbury brought the original motion, supported by Councillor Anja Schaefer, highlighting concerns about drought conditions and the need for water security alongside environmental and public benefits.

East West Rail Train Maintenance Depot

A significant portion of the meeting will focus on the East West Rail (EWR) Train Maintenance Depot (TMD) proposed for Newton Longville. The committee will consider the impact of this development on local residents. The EWR project aims to connect Oxford to Cambridge, and the TMD is described as a vital component for ensuring safe and reliable services. The report details the non-statutory consultation undertaken by EWR Company between April and June 2026, during which Buckinghamshire Council raised significant concerns regarding the consultation approach, the lack of adequate technical and environmental data, and specifically objected to the proposed location of the TMD and freight passing loops in Newton Longville. EWR Company has acknowledged these concerns and is expected to provide a response in November 2026. The report also outlines the ongoing engagement between EWR Company and Buckinghamshire Council, including technical meetings and a shared Issues Tracker.

Bus Service Improvement Programme

The committee will review the progress of the Bus Service Improvement Programme (BSIP) over the past year. Buckinghamshire's BSIP, agreed in 2021 and refreshed in June 2024, aims to establish buses as a key mode of travel, providing connectivity and accessibility for all. The council has established a Bus Enhanced Partnership with local bus operators and stakeholders to deliver the BSIP's objectives. The report highlights that bus passenger numbers have continued to grow year on year, with a 6.10% increase in passenger journeys in Buckinghamshire for 2024/25. The council has been utilising Department for Transport (DfT) revenue and capital grant funding to develop and enhance bus services, including supporting rural services, reinstating lost routes, and increasing frequency on existing services. Demand responsive transport (DRT) pilot schemes, 'Village Connect' and 'Pick Me Up', are also mentioned, with 'Pick Me Up' having concluded and 'Village Connect' continuing until 2027.

Home to School Transport Update

An update on the Home to School Transport Service will be presented, covering SEND transport and the home to school improvement programme. The council supports approximately 8,060 eligible pupils with travel assistance, particularly those with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). The report notes increasing demand and costs, reflecting national pressures and growth in Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs). A Home to School Transport Programme is in place, with measures including increasing the use of personal transport budgets, reviewing high-cost journeys, and route optimisation, which have already delivered significant savings. The report details the statutory duties of the council regarding home to school transport and outlines the current provision and arrangements, including the rise in EHCPs and the associated transport demand.

Work Programme

Finally, the committee will consider its upcoming work programme. This includes a discussion on water capacity, wastewater, flooding, and climate resilience, with the Chairman intending to investigate adding this area for scrutiny. The committee will also note the proposed items for the next meeting, scheduled for 9 February 2027.