Bus provision was cut between 2011 and 2023 at a rate 10 times higher in the most deprived areas of England compared with the least deprived, according to the IPPR North think-tank.
The government has claimed that all regions in England, but in particular "historically underserved" rural areas and small towns, will benefit from the money.
The bus sector is worth more than £11bn a year to the British economy, while bus services contribute almost £40bn every year to local economies, according to a research report.
Council leaders and transport bodies welcomed the final extension of Covid-19 bus funding, but warned a long-term settlement is crucial to improving local travel services.
The Greater Manchester Combined Authority’s decision to press ahead with a £135m franchising plan is premature, according operators bringing a legal challenge.
Nearly £300m of funding for public transport has been announced by the government as it hopes to get people back to work and education following the easing of lockdown measures.