A London-style bus system in Wales may require additional funding to be effective, as cautioned by the Welsh government. The proposal involves putting buses back under public control, enabling transport officials to determine the bus services provided. Welsh Labour aims to have bus companies bid for contracts rather than running their own routes, a shift from years of cuts and declining passenger numbers. While the idea was initially introduced six years ago, it may take another five years to come into effect.
Private companies have had the freedom to operate buses since the mid-1980s, with critics arguing that this approach makes services susceptible to being discontinued if they are not profitable. In contrast, London operates differently, with operators bidding for specific routes outlined by Transport for London. The Welsh government plans to introduce franchises overseen by the publicly-owned Transport for Wales (TfW) company, giving TfW jurisdiction over routes, schedules, and fares in collaboration with local councils.
Welsh ministers are aiming to develop a more integrated and efficient public transport system, streamlining the current system where bus companies dictate timetables and use varying ticket systems. Passenger numbers have decreased in Wales, especially since the onset of the Covid pandemic, prompting a need for additional funding or potentially reducing services. Transport Secretary Ken Skates emphasized that the government’s unprecedented move to take control over routes and schedules is ambitious and could lead to significant improvements in public transportation.
The proposed legislation divides Wales into regions, each implementing its own franchises over the next five years. The process is set to commence in 2027 in south-west Wales, where First Cymru, a major bus company, currently operates. The inclusion of bus franchises is viewed positively by some, such as Plaid Cymru, but concerns about stifling competition and financial sustainability have been raised by Welsh Conservative shadow transport secretary Peter Fox. Ultimately, the success of the franchise model will depend on adequate funding and proactive measures to enhance bus travel by addressing congestion issues and enhancing the overall passenger experience
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