UK councils gain new powers to reshape local bus services through franchising

The UK government has released updated guidance on setting up bus franchising schemes for local transport authorities in England. The document outlines how councils can take greater control over bus services in their areas. It forms part of broader plans to reform local transport across the country.

The new guidance, titled Setting up a bus franchising scheme, details the legal, procedural, and practical steps needed to introduce franchised bus networks. Under this model, local authorities set routes, timetables, and fares, while private operators run services under contract. The aim is to improve coordination, reliability, and accountability in local bus provision.

Alongside the main guidance, a separate bus franchising manual offers step-by-step support for authorities at every stage of the process. This includes advice on planning, procurement, and implementation. The government describes franchising as one of two formal options available to councils, alongside enhanced partnership arrangements.

The updated materials are designed to help authorities align bus services with local priorities, such as better connections, clearer ticketing, and more reliable journeys. However, no English councils have yet moved to adopt franchising under the current Department for Transport guidelines.

The guidance applies only to England and reflects the government's push for more local control over bus networks. Authorities now have detailed resources to explore franchising as a way to reshape services. The next steps will depend on whether councils choose to pursue this model in practice.