Bus services across the Liverpool City Region are set for a major transformation, with plans for a fully publicly-run bus network moving forward at pace. The introduction of a franchised system will see services brought under public control for the first time in nearly 40 years, promising more frequent buses, better connections and improved infrastructure. Liverpool City Region Combined Authority Franchising is Coming Sooner Than Planned You’ve probably heard about the move to bus franchising—where routes, fares and timetables will be planned by the public sector rather than private companies—but here’s what’s happening next. The first phase kicks off in St Helens and Wirral, with the new system up and running by September 2026. The whole region should be fully franchised by the end of 2027, a year ahead of schedule. Mayor Steve Rotheram, said: “Reliable, regular, and affordable buses are the backbone of a great public transport system. They connect people to work, education, and each ...
