The West Yorkshire Combined Authority has released an update on the latest developments regarding the Weaver Network, the region’s new bus franchising programme.
Decisions on bus design, technology systems, the delivery of a new bus depot in Wakefield, a wider programme of depot electrification works and the next steps on the contracting process were recently agreed upon during a meeting by a number of regional leaders.
The decisions come alongside approvals made for over 200 million GBP in new funding for projects that aim to deliver better transport links, improved walking and cycling routes and new, additional space for businesses to grow.
In 2024; the Mayor announced a decision to move to a franchised bus system for West Yorkshire. This will mean that all fares, routes, timetables, vehicles and depots would come under the control of the Combined Authority under the Weaver Network banner.
As part of work to introduce franchising, the Combined Authority has recently conducted a comprehensive tendering process with bus operators hoping to run the first round of services on its behalf.
Procurement follows the Combined Authority’s launch of a ‘dynamic market’ for potential operators last year, with companies invited to bid for contracts within the first round of services. These contracts range in size, and are intended to promote competition within the market, as well as create opportunities for smaller companies to grow.
The tender deadline has now been extended after a number of bus companies requested more time to work through and put together their bids, ensuring that the Combined Authority has the highest possible number and quality of bids to choose from.
Once completed, the extension will mean that the first franchised Weaver Network bus services will begin running in West Yorkshire in May 2027 – a month later than originally intended. The entire network will then come under public control by the end of 2028.
