The Welsh government has revealed proposals to transform the way local bus services are planned and delivered across Wales.
The Bus Services (Wales) Bill outlines how through Transport for Wales (TfW), in close collaboration with local authorities and Corporate Joint Committees, bus services will be planned and coordinated at a national level and delivered principally through franchised contracts by private, third and public sector operators.
The new bill that has been laid in the Senedd will, if passed, provide the powers to create a bus network that meets passenger needs including providing one network, one timetable and one ticket across Wales, with services based on local knowledge.
The roll out is intended to begin in South West Wales in 2027, before North Wales in 2028, South East Wales in 2029 and Mid Wales in 2030.
READ MORE: Wales announces bus franchising model to replace de-regulated system
While Mid Wales is the final region, TfW reports that it will benefit much earlier from improvements through the bridge to franchising work currently underway.
Cabinet secretary for transport and North Wales Ken Skates said: “This is a historic day for public transport in Wales, as proposals for bus reform begin their journey through the Senedd.
“This is about putting people first by providing one network, one timetable and one ticket across Wales.
“Change is needed. While many bus services work well, and some areas are well-served, it is not the case everywhere and for everyone.
“I want to see a bus network which puts people and communities first, with reliable, affordable and easy-to-use services; joined-up services which link with other forms of transport such as trains and active travel.
“The benefits of better bus services are clear and include increasing equity for those who need public transport the most and providing an alternative to the car.”
Achievements and innovations in public transport planning will be recognised and celebrated at the fourth annual CiTTi Awards on 25 November 2025 at De Vere Grand Connaught Rooms in London. Visit cittiawards.co.uk to learn more about this unmissable event for the UK’s transportation sector!
