The first contracts of the new era of bus franchising have been officially signed by regional transport chiefs and bus operators. First West Yorkshire has been chosen to run services running in Huddersfield and parts of Leeds, while Transdev Blazefield has been chosen to run services in Dewsbury. Further, smaller contracts and school service contracts are also progressing and announcements are expected in the coming weeks.
The first Weaver Network services are due to launch in Spring 2027, with franchising introduced in phases across West Yorkshire through to the end of 2028. Currently, more than 80 percent of the bus network is run by private operators who decide routes, frequencies and timetables, with the Combined Authority subsidising extra services and cheaper fares.
Under bus franchising, West Yorkshire Combined Authority will own the majority of buses and depots for the larger contracts, while setting routes, fares and service standards for all franchised services. Operators will be contracted to run services on its behalf.
This means greater accountability, with decisions about buses made locally and services that are designed for the people, not for profit.
Mayor of West Yorkshire Tracy Brabin said:
“I promised to bring buses back under public control and today is a landmark moment for bus franchising. Signing the first contracts for services is the next step to improving public transport across the region.
“For the first time, operators will run buses on behalf of the people of West Yorkshire, to standards set by us.
“Bus franchising takes us closer to our bold vision of a region-wide integrated Weaver Network and a better-connected, more reliable and affordable transport system for West Yorkshire.”
