West Midlands Mayor Advocates Bus Franchising for Public Ownership

The West Midlands is set to transition its bus services from private operators to public ownership, following strong feedback from the business community. Mayor Richard Parker announced this shift during a recent meeting of the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA), where he detailed the concerns raised by local businesses regarding the current bus service model.

During his campaign for the mayoralty in 2024, Parker encountered a common theme among business leaders: the urgent need to enhance the bus network. He expressed surprise at their emphasis on this issue, noting, “I didn’t imagine them to say ‘franchise the buses,’ but that’s exactly what they did.”

Companies have voiced their frustration over the declining quality of bus services. Parker stated, “The private sector operator has failed this region. They benefit from tens of millions of pounds through subsidies each year, and services are declining and not improving.”

Business Leaders Demand Better Transportation Solutions

The mayor highlighted that job opportunities in prosperous areas like Solihull, particularly in the town centre, the airport, and at JLR, remain inaccessible to many young people living in the northern parts of the borough. During discussions with the Chamber of Commerce in Solihull, business representatives stressed the necessity of creating a more reliable bus service that aligns with employment schedules.

Parker pointed out that current bus timetables fail to correspond with the shift patterns required by local employers. He stated, “The failure of our bus network undermines everything I want to do in terms of increasing opportunity.”

In response to these challenges, the mayor is advocating for bus franchising as a solution. He believes that this approach will allow for a comprehensive redesign of the bus network, leading to a timetable that better meets the needs of the West Midlands. Parker emphasized, “Bus franchising gives us a great opportunity to re-frame the way in which buses work.”

Plans in Motion for Improved Bus Services

Parker expressed confidence in the potential success of this initiative, citing the positive outcomes seen in Greater Manchester as a model for the West Midlands. “There is a lot of work to be done to get there. We’re working very closely with the Department for Transport to ensure best practice,” he remarked.

Despite some concerns raised by local officials, including Coventry councillor Pervez Akhtar, who sought assurances regarding the anticipated benefits of the transition, Parker remains optimistic. He stated, “We’re making good progress. I’m confident with the team around me we’ve got the budgets in place to deliver on that.”

The upcoming changes represent a significant shift in how public transportation is managed in the region, aiming to create a more efficient and accessible bus network for all residents.