The Welsh Government has introduced a new Bill to change how local bus services are planned and delivered. If passed by the Senedd, the law will give Transport for Wales and local authorities more control over bus services.
The Bus Services (Wales) Bill proposes a single bus network, timetable, and ticketing system across Wales. Services would be planned at a national level and run through franchised contracts with private, third-sector, and public-sector operators.
Transport Secretary Ken Skates has noted that the Bill aims to make bus services more reliable, affordable, and easier to use. He also highlighted the need for better connections between buses, trains, and other transport options.
Transport Secretary Ken Skates said:This is a historic day for public transport in Wales, as proposals for bus reform begin their journey through the Senedd. This is about putting people first by providing one network, one timetable and one ticket across Wales.
Change is needed. While many bus services work well, and some areas are well-served, it is not the case everywhere and for everyone. I want to see a bus network which puts people and communities first, with reliable, affordable and easy-to-use services; joined-up services which link with other forms of transport such as trains and active travel.
The benefits of better bus services are clear and include increasing equity for those who need public transport the most and providing an alternative to the car.
Buses carry about 190,000 passengers daily in Wales, but issues such as unreliable services, uncoordinated timetables, and inconsistent ticketing systems discourage use. The Bill aims to fix these problems and ensure ticket revenue is reinvested to improve services nationwide.
The changes will be introduced in phases, starting in South West Wales in 2027. North Wales will follow in 2028, South East Wales in 2029, and Mid Wales in 2030. Mid Wales will also see earlier improvements through an interim scheme.
The Welsh Government says the Bill will create a more accessible and integrated bus network to support passengers and communities.
This change aligns with a greater shift to return local bus services to public control across the United Kingdom.
