Transport for Wales has been instructed to develop an approach that attracts a range of bus operators and retains a role for smaller operators
Skates: ‘We’ll offer various types of franchising contracts’
Small and medium-sized bus operators will continue to play a role in providing local bus services in Wales once franchising has been introduced, according to Ken Skates, cabinet secretary for transport and North Wales.
Addressing the Senedd this week, Skates discussed the Welsh Government’s plans to roll out franchising to cover all 1,600 buses, starting with south-west Wales in 2027 and ending with mid-Wales in 2030.
Following the successes of large groups in Transport for Greater Manchester’s three Bee Network franchising rounds, Welsh SME operators fear franchising poses an existential threat.
Skates sought to address these concerns: “Wales has a mix of bus operators, which I want to see continue. I know that some operators are nervous of what franchising will mean for them, but I am clear that we will build a network that is delivered by a range of operators, including SMEs, national providers, publicly owned bus companies and community transport organisations.
“This means we’ll offer various types of franchising contracts, some that are attractive to smaller operators and others that will be more attractive to larger ones. I want a network to reflect our diverse bus sector and minimise the administrative burden that may put some off from bidding. I have instructed Transport for Wales to develop an approach that attracts a range of operators that can deliver high-quality services and, of course, social value.”
This article appears in the latest issue of Passenger Transport.
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