Six mayoral authorities across England are to receive a significant boost from a new government fund totalling £3 million, aimed at accelerating their plans for bus franchising. This financial injection is designed to empower local leaders to take greater control over their bus networks, with the ultimate goal of delivering better, more reliable, and potentially more affordable services for passengers.
The funding will enable these authorities to develop the necessary frameworks and infrastructure to implement franchising models, similar to the successful system already in operation in Greater Manchester. Under a franchised system, local authorities set routes, fares, and service standards, with bus operators then bidding to run these services. This contrasts with the deregulated model, where operators largely decide routes and timetables.
The move is part of the government's wider commitment to a 'bus revolution', a strategy outlined to revitalise bus travel across the country. Supporters of franchising argue that it allows for better integration with other public transport modes, more strategic planning of routes to meet community needs, and greater accountability over service quality. It also opens the door for initiatives like simplified ticketing and potentially more frequent services, especially in areas currently underserved.
For passengers, the shift to franchising could mean a more joined-up travel experience, with a focus on convenience and accessibility. The long-term vision includes a network of bus services that are more responsive to local demand, reducing reliance on private cars and contributing to environmental goals through increased public transport usage. The specific mayoral authorities benefiting from this funding have not yet been individually named, but the initiative is expected to cover a broad geographical spread across England.
This latest funding round builds on previous government investments in bus infrastructure and services, reflecting a sustained effort to improve public transport options outside of London. The success of these franchising schemes will depend on effective collaboration between local authorities, central government, and bus operators to navigate the complexities of transitioning from a deregulated to a franchised system.