Bus Summit kicks off the independent review of franchising

Bus Summit kicks off the independent review of franchising

Bus operators from around the country came together on Thursday (November 6) for a Bus Summit in Peterborough – an important step towards bus franchising across the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough region.   

The summit was convened by Mayor Paul Bristow and chaired by highly experienced Leon Daniels OBE. It marked the start of a review into how best to bring bus franchising to the area. Leon Daniels is the independent chair of the review, which will support a clear and deliverable plan for bus franchising.  

Bringing together bus operators and community transport providers, the summit was an opportunity for them to explain what it’s like to operate in the region, the existing challenges and their experience of franchising elsewhere.  

Connectivity is central to the Combined Authority’s Local Growth Plan (LGP). Transport improvements underpin growth by allowing people to move more freely around the region to access homes, jobs and education.  

Under franchising, the Combined Authority would set out routes, frequencies and fares, then invite bus operators to bid for contracts to run those services.  This has potential to improve reliability, bring greater coverage for rural communities, and deliver more consistent standards of service.   

The Mayor commissioned the independent review of bus franchising to ensure that the right model is adopted for local needs. It will publish a report early next year.  

Mayor Paul Bristow said: “Growing up here, I relied on buses. I know how important they are, which is why it’s so important to me that we get franchising right and make it affordable and deliverable. I want a model that fits our mix of rural and urban areas.  

“The Bus Summit allowed us to hear from the people who know most about the challenges involved – bus and community transport operators. It was also a promise delivered. I was delighted so many attended, shared their ideas and want to help us get Cambridgeshire and Peterborough moving.”   

Leon Daniels OBE said: “The Combined Authority has a bold vision for the future of bus transport. If done right, bus franchising will support local growth and deliver sustained prosperity for the region. The summit marks a key moment in the independent review I am currently chairing. Collaborating with those operating in the bus sector will ensure we can identify a way forward that works for everyone.”