Bus franchising - frequently asked questions
What is bus franchising?
It means decisions about bus services in Wales, including routes, timetables, fares, hours of operation and service quality standards would be made by the Welsh Government and Transport for Wales. We’d make these decisions in partnership with local authorities. Private bus operators would then bid for contracts to run services to our specification.
Why are we proposing bus franchising?
Wales’ bus network isn’t working as it should. Passenger numbers have been falling for many years despite significant public funding.
Many people face too many barriers to bus travel, including poor reliability, tickets being accepted by some operators and not by others, inaccurate information and bus services not linking up with each other - or other forms of transport like trains.
Change is needed to create a bus network that you can be confident to use for work, education or leisure, wherever you live in Wales.
What are the benefits of bus franchising?
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There would be one ticket, allowing you to travel seamlessly on different bus routes, or by bus and train.
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There would be one timetable, making it quicker and easier for you to plan your journey.
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Buses would be timed to connect with each other and with trains, so you’d spend less time waiting for connections.
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Multiple services wouldn’t follow the same route (often arriving at bus stops at the same time), making them more efficient and easier for you to navigate.
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Buses would depart at consistent times past each hour, so you’d become familiar with them and wouldn’t always need to refer to the timetable.
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Services would have consistent operating hours, providing more certainty if you’re relying on the bus to get you home.
When will bus franchising start?
Subject to approval by the Senedd, a phased rollout will begin in 2027. We expect the whole of Wales’ bus network to become franchised by 2030.
Where can I find more information on bus franchising?
The full Welsh Government proposal for bus franchising can be found here:
Our Roadmap to Bus Reform: Towards One Network, One Timetable, One Ticket
How can I have my say on bus franchising?
You can share your views and help shape our proposals for bus franchising in Wales at TfW Have Your Say.
