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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 ...
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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.

A small green bus labeled HTL Buses and displaying the route number 173 to Belle Vale is driving on a road. The background has trees and a brick wall. The bus has the registration plate YJ12 GZG.
Tom Harrison (Bus Ambassador)

The acquisition not only broadens Tower Transit’s presence but also gives them a strong foothold ahead of the Liverpool City Region’s plans to introduce bus franchising.

Huyton Travel, a family-run business since 1985, has been a familiar name in Merseyside for nearly 40 years. With a fleet of over 40 buses, they’ve built a solid reputation for reliability, quality, and good customer service. The Yates family, who founded and have steered the company, will continue to support operations to ensure a smooth handover for passengers and staff.

A green public bus with the route number 159 displayed, labeled HTL Buses, is at a bus station. The bus is turning, with passengers visible inside. A second bus is partially visible in the background under a clear sky.
Tom Harrison (Bus Ambassador)

Samuel Ribeiro, Managing Director at Tower Transit, said he was excited about the acquisition and praised Huyton Travel’s long-standing commitment to the local community. He reassured that existing teams would remain in place, making the transition seamless for all involved.

Commenting about the news, Samuel Ribeiro said,

With its rich 40-year legacy in the Liverpool City Region, Huyton brings deep local expertise that, combined with our global experience, sets us up for an exciting future, especially with bus franchising on the horizon.

Big thanks to John & Paul Yates and the Huyton team, we are excited for what’s ahead!

This development signifies a significant shift in the region's public transport strategy, aiming to deliver a London-style system that offers quicker, cheaper, greener, and more reliable bus services. By bringing Huyton Travel into the fold, Tower Transit isn’t just expanding its UK operations; it’s also positioning itself to navigate and thrive in this new environment.

A green HTL Buses vehicle is making a turn at a junction on a rainy day. The bus has a digital destination sign on the front. Trees, streetlights and parked vehicles are visible in the background.
Tom Harrison (Bus Ambassador)

For avid readers of the Bus Ambassador blog, this marks a significant shift in the region’s bus landscape. It’s a clear sign that operators are adjusting their strategies in response to policy changes and new opportunities. With franchising on the horizon, all eyes will be on how Tower Transit uses this move to enhance services and meet the challenges ahead.

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LCR to Secure Bus Depots in Major Franchising Move

By on
Image
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 ...
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