Featured Post

Greater Manchester Bus Services Back in the Hands of the People

By on
Image
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.
Post a Comment

Transforming Wales’s Bus Network with a Franchising Future

By on

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.

A red and silver TrawsCymru bus, labeled TrawsCymru, is parked at a bus stop in front of a train station on a rainy day. The station sign is visible in the background.
Transport for Wales

Under the new franchising model, the current de-regulated system will be replaced. Public, private and third-sector operators will have the opportunity to bid for service packages, fostering a more structured and inclusive approach. The model also removes restrictions on publicly owned bus companies, allowing them to compete on equal terms with private operators.

This reform represents a seismic shift for the bus industry in Wales. Decisions regarding routes, timetables and fares will be collaboratively managed by the Welsh Government, Transport for Wales and local councils. This collaborative approach aims to deliver a more customer-focused, integrated network of services tailored to local needs.

A Phased Rollout for Transformative Change

The scale of this transformation means implementation will be gradual. The Bill is expected to be introduced to the Senedd in early 2025, with the rollout of the franchising model occurring regionally:

  • South West Wales: 2027

  • North Wales: 2028

  • South Wales: 2029

  • Mid-Wales: 2030

Ken Skates, Cabinet Secretary for Transport and North Wales, emphasised the significance of this change:

“Delivering a bus bill, which fundamentally changes the way bus services are delivered in Wales, is one of my key priorities. We know that buses are a lifeline for many people to get to work, visit friends and family, and gain access to services. The new franchising model will help us make better use of the significant funding the Welsh Government provides to the bus industry and will allow us to design a network that works for people and communities – alleviating transport poverty to create a fairer and more equal Wales.”

Bridging the Gap to Franchising

While the franchising system takes shape, interim measures are being introduced to support existing bus services and ensure continuity for passengers. These include:

  • Financial Investment: Over £250m has been allocated since the start of the pandemic, including £64m for the current financial year alone.

  • Sustainable Transport: Greener vehicles are being introduced to reduce the environmental impact of public transport.

  • Rural Connectivity: Demand-led services, such as the Fflecsi and TrawsCymru initiatives in West Wales and the Sherpa service in North Wales, are improving access for remote communities.

The Endgame: A Fairer, More Sustainable Wales

This franchising initiative seeks to address longstanding challenges in Wales’s bus network. By creating an integrated system, the Welsh Government aims to maximise the efficiency of its significant financial support to the industry. Importantly, the new model aspires to alleviate transport poverty, connecting communities and fostering a more equitable Wales.

For transport professionals, this transformation poses both opportunities and challenges. It signals a future where collaboration, sustainability and public benefit take precedence. While there is a long road ahead, the potential for a more reliable and inclusive bus network is an inspiring vision for Wales.

As rollout begins, all eyes will be on South West Wales in 2027 to see how this bold approach takes shape and what lessons it might offer for other regions across the UK.

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Arriva Invests £14 Million in 56 New Buses for Liverpool City Region

By on
Image
The Liverpool City Region is gearing up for a transport transformation, with Arriva investing £14 million in 56 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...
More

First Bus Gets a Glow-Up As Part of Wider Business Transformation

By on
Image
First Bus has revealed a new logo and branding as part of its Moving the Everyday campaign, marking a significant milestone in its ongoing transformation. The company says this is more than a cosmetic change – it’s a statement of intent to focus on customers, its workforce, and the wider role buses play in society. First Bus This revamp aims to connect people not just to places but to each other, celebrating the everyday importance of buses in keeping communities moving. The campaign also highlights the environmental, social, and economic benefits of leaving cars at home and hopping on a bus. A New Era for First Bus The Moving the Everyday campaign is fronted by TV personality Josie Gibson, who shares stories of community resilience and the unsung heroes who rely on buses every day. First Bus is also making bold moves toward becoming a net-zero operation, pledging £250m to transition its fleet to zero-emission buses by 2035. The updated branding is the visual cornerstone of the compa...
More