Mayor Dr. Nik Johnson of Cambridgeshire and Peterborough has announced a major overhaul of the region's bus system by introducing a franchise model. This move aims to bring bus services under greater public control, making them more reliable, affordable, and focused on passengers' needs.
This decision represents the most significant change to the area's bus network in four decades. Under the new system, the Combined Authority will have the authority to set fares, routes, timetables, and service standards. They will collaborate with private bus operators under contract to ensure these standards are met effectively. Unlike the current deregulated system established by the 1985 Transport Act, franchising will allow profits to be reinvested into enhancing services.
The decision came after the Combined Authority Board recommended franchising to the Mayor on Thursday, February 6, as the best approach to reform the bus system. The alternative, an Enhanced Partnership, would have allowed for closer collaboration with operators but would have left critical decisions, such as service levels, in the hands of private companies.
Mayor Dr Nik Johnson said:
“This is one of the most significant moments for local public transport in decades.”
“For too long, private control of buses has meant ever-dwindling, unreliable services which don’t meet passenger need, are less-and-less affordable and often require millions in public subsidy just to keep key routes going. It is high time for change
“Bus franchising puts communities first. It gives us the power to design a network that works for the people of Cambridgeshire and Peterborough, with better routes, more frequent services, and a focus on connectivity, not just what’s profitable for operators.
“This won’t happen overnight – franchising is a long-term project, and we have 40 years of poorly-regulated dysfunction to undo. But this decision is a major step towards a properly joined-up, high-quality public transport system that delivers faster, more reliable, and convenient journeys.”
Bus franchising will allow the Combined Authority to:
- Create a more integrated network with coordinated timetables and ticketing.
- Improve services in rural areas and ensure communities are not left behind.
- Encourage more people to use buses, reducing congestion and improving air quality.
- Make services more accountable to local people and putting passengers ahead of commercial interests.
The decision to franchise the bus system follows an extensive public consultation conducted from August to November last year, where 63% of over 1,600 respondents supported the move. The Combined Authority’s Transport and Infrastructure Committee reviewed the consultation results and unanimously recommended franchising to the Mayor as the best approach to reform the region’s bus network.
The transition to franchising will be carefully managed to ensure a smooth rollout with minimal disruption. The first franchised services are anticipated to begin in late 2027. The Combined Authority will start formal preparations for implementation, which will include engaging with local communities, businesses, and other transport stakeholders to keep them informed of progress. They will also work closely with bus operators to ensure a seamless transition to the new system.
A sustainable funding model will be developed, drawing from various sources such as revenue from bus fares, contributions from Cambridgeshire County Council and Peterborough City Council through the Transport Levy, the Mayoral Precept, and Government funding and grants.
Image credit: Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority
