West Yorkshire leaders give backing to latest work on bus franchising

Taking local control of buses, as part of the Weaver Network, will allow the West Yorkshire Combined Authority (CA) to set bus routes, frequencies and fares for the benefit of passengers across the region.

Details of how contracts will be awarded for running buses, which areas will see the first franchised services, and plans to purchase bus depots were discussed at a meeting of the CA.

The support from West Yorkshire's council leaders comes ahead of the launch of the first round of contract procurement in October, expected to cover parts of Leeds and Kirklees.  

Mayor of West Yorkshire Tracy Brabin said: “It's fantastic to see the progress we're making to take back control of our region's buses. 

"Franchising will be a vital part of our Weaver Network which will offer seamless travel for passengers across bus, train, tram and walking and cycling routes.   

"There is still plenty to do, but we are well on our way to launching the first franchised bus services by 2027, and a wholly publicly-run network the following year."

Leader of Bradford Council and chair of the CA’s Transport Committee Susan Hinchcliffe said: “For too long, bus passengers in West Yorkshire have suffered from unreliable services and cancellations – and that is just for the routes that haven’t been cut completely. 

“A franchised network will allow us to run buses in the interests of the people who use them.

“It's important to give the public a clear picture of how franchising will work, at the same time as giving assurances to us as CA members, and helping to build excitement about the future of bus travel for our region.”

When awarding bus service contracts, West Yorkshire will be split into nine zones. Kirklees and west Leeds are likely to have the first franchised services, expected to start running in 2027. 

Bus companies will be able to bid for both large and small contract bundles, aimed at encouraging competition within the sector and allowing smaller operators to grow. 

The paper also contains details on how the CA may choose to use compulsory purchase powers if necessary to secure control of key bus depots in the region over the coming years.

For more information, read the papers here https://westyorkshire.moderngov.co.uk/documents/s41735/Item%2015%20-%20Bus%20Franchising.pdf