Green light given to franchise local buses

Cambridgeshire's bus network is set to be franchised in a major shake-up.

The Mayor of Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Dr Nik Johnson has announced he will franchise the region’s bus system, and roll out the most significant reform of the area's bus network in decades.
 
Under the new model, the Combined Authority will set fares, routes, timetables and service standards, and select contracted private bus operators.

Officials hope the move will create a "more integrated" network, with the first franchised services expected to launch in late 2027.

Mayor of Cambridgeshire and Peterborough, Dr Nik Johnson:

"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."

Stagecoach East said, even with franchising changes, there are still "fundamental challenges" to providing a sustainable and reliable bus network.

The Managing Director of Stagecoach East, Darren Roe, said he hopes discussions on franchising will not "get in the way" of fixing issues such as congestion, parking enforcement and rural services.

Managing Director of Stagecoach East, Darren Roe:

"We look forward to continuing the conversation on what works best for our customers locally, bringing our considerable experience and extensive knowledge of running services in franchised regions like London and Greater Manchester.

"At Stagecoach East, we have 40 years’ experience running buses in Cambridgeshire and Peterborough and excited to continue serving our passengers in the best way that we can."