Update given on bus franchising programme

A series of recommendations related to the bus franchising programme have been approved by regional leaders at a West Yorkshire Combined Authority meeting.

Decisions on bus design, technology systems, delivery of a new bus depot in Wakefield, a wider programme of depot electrification works and the next steps on the contracting process were agreed.

It comes alongside approvals made today for more than £200 million in new funding for projects that will deliver better transport links, improved walking and cycling routes and new space for businesses to grow.

A decision was made by the Mayor back in 2024 to move to a franchised bus system for West Yorkshire. This means fares, routes, timetables, vehicles and depots would now be controlled by the Combined Authority, under the Weaver Network banner. 

As part of ongoing work to introduce franchising, the Combined Authority has been conducting an extensive tendering process with bus operators hoping to run the first round of services on its behalf.

The procurement follows the launch of the Combined Authority’s “dynamic market” for potential operators last year, with companies then invited to bid for contracts in the first round of services. 

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

Following requests from bus companies to give them more time to work through and put together their bids, the tender deadline has now been extended. This will ensure the Combined Authority has the highest possible number and quality of bids to choose from – meaning better services for passengers across the region.

The extension will mean the first franchised Weaver Network bus services will begin running in West Yorkshire in May 2027, instead of April 2027.

Franchised Weaver Network services will be implemented in phases across West Yorkshire, starting in May 2027, with the entire network coming under public control by the end of 2028.