Mayor Steve Rotheram has revealed advanced plans to return bus services to public control across the Liverpool City Region.
The plans include more frequent services, extended routes, and improved connectivity to key locations such as hospitals and railway stations. A new express service linking St Helens and Liverpool John Lennon Airport will also be introduced, with further service enhancements anticipated as the transition progresses.
The bus franchising model, which provides public control over routes, fares, and timetables, will now be implemented a year earlier than initially scheduled. The first phase will commence in St Helens in 2026, followed by Wirral, with full coverage across all six boroughs expected by the end of 2027.
Mayor Steve Rotheram said:Reliable, regular, and affordable buses are the backbone of a great public transport system. They connect people to work, education, and each other – but for too long, our services have been run in the interests of private operators, not passengers.
That’s why I took the historic decision to bring our buses back under public control – a move backed by nearly 70% of people in our region.
For the first time in nearly 40 years, we will have the power to set fares, routes, and timetables, ensuring that buses work for the people who rely on them. And because we’re moving faster than planned, more communities will feel the benefits even sooner.
This initiative aligns with the Mayor’s broader objective to develop a fully integrated transport system, offering a simpler, more efficient, and affordable alternative to private vehicles.
At the upcoming Combined Authority meeting, leaders will review a proposed 119 million GBP investment in new buses, depots, and infrastructure to support the shift. This funding package includes the acquisition of electric double-decker buses, contributing to the region’s goal of achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2035.
The Combined Authority’s 400 million GBP capital programme for 2025/26 includes:
- 46 million GBP for rail improvements, including the development of Baltic Station (£25 million), enhanced accessibility at existing stations (£8 million), and increased capacity at Sandhills station (£4 million).
- 15 million GBP allocated for the Mersey Ferries, including the procurement of the first new ferry in over six decades.
- 17 million GBP dedicated to upgrades for the Mersey Tunnels.
- Investment in smart ticketing, electric vehicle infrastructure, and active travel routes.
With 94% of funding sourced from government grants, the Combined Authority aims to enhance bus services while maintaining financial sustainability and limiting additional taxpayer contributions.
Liverpool City Region has already invested 500 million GBP in a new rail fleet, constructed the 80 million GBP Headbolt Lane station, and introduced a 2 GBP bus fare cap, which will remain in place until at least September 2025.
Mayor Rotheram highlighted that these efforts are designed to create a more accessible and environmentally sustainable transport system, ensuring that public transport is a viable and attractive option for residents and visitors alike.
Mayor Steve Rotheram added:This isn’t just about getting from A to B – it’s about transforming how people move around our city region, cutting congestion, improving air quality, and building a transport system that is cleaner, greener, and fit for the future.
People in our region deserve a public transport system that works for them. Through bold, decisive action, we’re putting the public back into public transport – and making buses a first choice, not a last resort.
