West Midlands franchising could roll out in 2027

Bus franchising in the West Midlands could roll out in 2027.

Last year, the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) Board commissioned an assessment of future options for the bus network. The work will explore how a franchised network could be delivered. Under the current legislation the process, including public consultation, means the transition could begin in early 2025. The first franchised services will be operating approximately two years after that.

“This work requested by the Mayor will show if there are improved efficiencies and benefits from franchising” – Pete Bond, director of integrated network services for TfWM

Pete Bond, director of integrated network services for TfWM, said: “We now have a bus network which requires a long-term subsidy and so the current approach, in which we tender a number of socially necessary services on a case-by-case basis, may no longer be fit for purpose.

“This work requested by the Mayor will show if there are improved efficiencies and benefits from franchising, and if we can get better value for money for the taxpayer as well as shape the bus network by using funding in a more coordinated and efficient way. It will also highlight if further customer benefits can be made such as improved ticketing and fares and passenger information as well as further integration with tram and rail services.”

The report to the WMCA Board in July will set out the process in further detail along with the estimated set up and running costs.