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LCR to Secure Bus Depots in Major Franchising Move

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Bus services across the Liverpool City Region are set for a major transformation, with plans for a fully publicly-run bus network moving forward at pace. The introduction of a franchised system will see services brought under public control for the first time in nearly 40 years, promising more frequent buses, better connections and improved infrastructure. Liverpool City Region Combined Authority Franchising is Coming Sooner Than Planned You’ve probably heard about the move to bus franchising—where routes, fares and timetables will be planned by the public sector rather than private companies—but here’s what’s happening next. The first phase kicks off in St Helens and Wirral, with the new system up and running by September 2026. The whole region should be fully franchised by the end of 2027, a year ahead of schedule. Mayor Steve Rotheram, said: “Reliable, regular, and affordable buses are the backbone of a great public transport system. They connect people to work, education, and each ...

Tower Transit Group Acquires Huyton Travel

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In a move that’s sure to shake up the bus scene in the Liverpool City Region, Tower Transit Group, part of the Kelsian Group, has taken over local bus operator Huyton Travel, otherwise known as HTL Buses.

First 24-Hour Bus Service in West Yorkshire Sees Skyrocketing Growth

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In West Yorkshire, the 72 Service, running non-stop between Leeds and Bradford, has been a game-changer since it kicked off last September. And the stats? Well, they’re pretty incredible.

FirstGroup Takes the Wheel at Matthews Coach Hire

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Exciting news from FirstGroup! They’ve just acquired Matthews Coach Hire, a family-owned coach and bus operator in Ireland with a solid reputation and over 40 vehicles to its name – including two shiny new electric coaches.

Magic Bus Takes Its Final Bow in Manchester

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Well, that’s that. After clocking up an unbelievable 65 million miles over 25 years, Manchester’s much-loved Magic Bus has made its last stop. Stagecoach Manchester Earlier this month, Stagecoach Manchester officially handed over the reins to the Bee Network, Transport for Greater Manchester’s ambitious integrated transport system. It’s a big step for the city, marking the start of a new chapter while waving goodbye to a proper legend of the roads.

Five New Optare Solo Buses for Blackwater Valley Bus Network

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Big news for Aldershot and the Blackwater Valley—Stagecoach South has rolled out five shiny, UK-built Optare Solo M8570SR buses! With a cool £860,000 investment, these low-emission beauties are set to transform local transport, making your journeys cleaner, greener and comfier than ever.

Greater Manchester Bus Services Back in the Hands of the People

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Greater Manchester has taken a bold step in public transport, completing the historic re-regulation of its bus network. This milestone, the first in England in 40 years, represents a seismic shift in how the city-region connects its communities, promotes sustainability and drives economic growth. The transformation is part of the Bee Network, an ambitious vision for a fully integrated, “London-style” public transport system by 2025.

Yorkshire Kids Get First Ride on Transdev’s New Electric Double-Deckers

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Move over, Rudolph. Two shiny new double-decker buses just whisked Yorkshire kids off on a festive adventure to the Elf Village – and they’re fully electric. Yep, Christmas came early, and it’s running on batteries.

Transforming Wales’s Bus Network with a Franchising Future

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The Welsh Government has announced ambitious plans to overhaul the way local bus services operate across Wales. The proposed changes aim to put people and communities at the heart of public transport, creating a system that prioritises connectivity and sustainability.

Arriva Invests £14 Million in 46 New Buses for Liverpool City Region

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The Liverpool City Region is gearing up for a transport transformation, with Arriva investing £14 million in 46 Alexander Dennis Enviro200 buses. These state-of-the-art single-deck, low-emission vehicles are now hitting the roads across the region, bringing passengers a smoother, greener and more comfortable travel experience. Arriva Bus UK This isn’t just about adding buses to the network; it’s a strategic step in creating a London-style, integrated public transport system. The buses, decked out in the Liverpool City Region’s bold yellow, black and grey livery, represent a shift towards a unified, accessible network. For passengers, it means a journey that’s as modern and efficient as the big-city systems they’ve long envied. Let’s unpack why this fleet is making waves and how it’s set to redefine public transport in Merseyside. A Closer Look: The Alexander Dennis Enviro200 The Alexander Dennis Enviro200 is a well-regarded choice for operators, and it’s easy to see why Arriva picked i...