Multi-million pound investment in publicly-owned Weaver Network bus fleet approved

Multi-million pound investment in publicly-owned Weaver Network bus fleet approved

A multi-million pound investment in a new fleet of publicly owned, zero emission electric buses has been approved by West Yorkshire’s council leaders.

A new region-wide franchised network will see bus fares, routes and timetables set by the West Yorkshire Combined Authority, forming a key part of an integrated Weaver Network that meets the needs of passengers, helps businesses thrive and offers seamless and reliable travel.  

The Combined Authority has begun the procurement process for selecting operators, through a range of different contract types and sizes, to run services on its behalf.  

And last week Combined Authority committee members approved a deposit of £30million to ensure the vehicles will be delivered in time for the first franchised services starting in April 2027.

Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire, said: 

"This investment is a major step towards exciting changes for our region's buses.

"A brand new fleet of zero emission electric vehicles, including features and designs shaped by the people who use them, will be a vital part of an integrated Weaver Network that makes sustainable travel the easy choice.

"Bringing buses under our control will ensure that services work for passengers, creating a greener, better-connected region for everyone."

Franchising is set to be rolled out across the region in three phases, with each round covering three geographical zones, beginning in April 2027 and concluding in 2028.  

It will form a key part of an integrated Weaver Network, bringing together buses, trains and walking and cycling routes to connect communities, improve access to jobs and open up new opportunities.   

The single unified identity was unveiled earlier this year and the public will start to see the Weaver Network on transport infrastructure as the Combined Authority repairs, replaces, upgrades and invests in the travel network.  

Publicly-owned buses will be used for the larger franchised contracts, alongside vehicles provided by operators running smaller contracts. 

Minimum vehicle standards would be set for both, covering a range of categories including emissions, capacity, maintenance, customer services, accessibility and safety features.  

Members of the public will be able to help shape some customer features on the new fleet of buses, such as accessibility, seating, heating, ventilation and air conditioning, with a consultation due to be held in the autumn.  

The total cost for the first round’s bus fleet order is estimated to be up to £100million.

In August the Combined Authority opened its ‘dynamic market’ for potential operators, with companies accepted and registered then invited to bid for contracts across the three rounds.  

It set out strict criteria for Weaver Network bus services to raise standards and ensure value for money.  

This month operators are being invited to bid for the first round of contracts, covering Kirklees and parts of Leeds.  

These contracts range in size, promoting competition in the market and creating opportunities for smaller companies to grow.