Update on bringing buses into public control
- Izaak Wilson
- Aug 20
- 2 min read
In the last few weeks we've raised concerns about the 28 and 23 bus services. In both cases people have heard rumours that the routes are due to change, and FirstBus have confirmed that is not the case.
Ultimately however local buses are in private control - so these decisions are in the hands of private operators.
That's why Labour Mayor of West Yorkshire Tracy Brabin is going through the process of bringing them into public control.
Today we received an update on that process, pasted below.
But the key news is that the public bus contracts should be awarded in spring/summer next year, with the services running from 2027.
Our ward is very important part of the bus network, so we'll be actively working with the Mayor's team to make sure we have the best possible services.
The update: "The West Yorkshire Combined Authority (CA) started a technical procurement process this week by opening its “dynamic market” for potential operators. This sets out strict criteria for any bus companies wanting to bid to run services in the region, to raise standards and ensure value for money.
A new West Yorkshire-wide, franchised network will see bus fares, routes and timetables set by the CA, with bus operators accepted and registered onto the dynamic market invited to bid for contracts to run services.
The work will ensure West Yorkshire becomes only the third area in the country, after Manchester and Liverpool city regions, to start the process of signing up operators to run franchised services.
Chair of the West Yorkshire Combined Authority’s Transport Committee Cllr Susan Hinchcliffe said:
“We are eager to see franchised services running as soon as possible, and the new dynamic market ensures we are on the road to better buses.
“This is our opportunity to challenge operators to show us what they can offer as part of a new system where the passenger comes first.
“I invite operators large and small to get in touch and get involved, and help us to create a better-connected West Yorkshire.”
