The West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) has outlined plans for owning and managing buses under the region’s proposed franchised bus network.
Under the plans, the authority will either own or directly lease the region’s bus fleet, rather than relying on private operators to supply vehicles.
WMCA’s plans include purchasing existing buses currently used by commercial operator, National Express, as well as procuring new vehicles as part of a rolling replacement programme. A five-year fleet renewal plan is proposed to address the age and condition of buses entering the franchised system.
The strategy is intended to support the transition to a franchised system, under which Transport for West Midlands (TfWM) would specify routes, timetables and service standards, while operators would bid to run services under contract. Franchising is expected to begin from 2027, subject to final approvals.
The strategy aligns with the West Midlands’ wider transport and environmental policies, including a commitment to reducing emissions. While the initial fleet is expected to include a mix of diesel and electric buses, future purchases would prioritise zero-emission vehicles, including electric buses, as part of a longer-term transition.
Funding options currently include a combination of government grants, borrowing, and revenue generated by the franchised network. Further detailed business cases will be required before final decisions are taken on fleet size, procurement methods and financing.
