'We should not be afraid to step in to run bus services'

SWANSEA Council should not be afraid to step in to run bus services if needed, its leader said during a discussion about greater public control of the network.

- RICHARD YOULE

The Senedd has just approved franchising legislation which the Welsh Government hopes will create a more comprehensive, joined-up and reliable system and encourage more people to travel by bus.

Currently private bus operators decide most routes on a commercial basis, but this will change. Under the new system Transport for Wales will oversee bus franchises and, with input from councils and regional bodies called corporate joint committees, set routes, timetables and fares. Bus operators will then bid for contracts.

Councils in South West Wales, where bus franchising will be rolled out first in the country, have been busy been in recent weeks finalising so-called base networks effectively a starting point setting out what services there should be. The plan is for franchising to start in the region in 2027.

Swansea's cabinet approved its base network at a meeting on Thursday with members insisting it was just start.

"This is a very exciting time for bus services in Swansea and the wider region," said Cllr Andrew Stevens, whose cabinet portfolio includes transport. "I'm sure there will be teething issues but this is a step in the right direction."