Four at-risk Bradford bus services saved after WYCA steps in

Four bus services in Bradford that were set to be cut have been saved following intervention by the West Yorkshire Combined Authority (WYCA).

First Bus had announced plans to withdraw the 615, 616, 619, and 633 routes from May, citing “insufficient” passenger demand to cover running costs.

Following the announcement, WYCA confirmed it would step in to complete a tender exercise for replacement services, ensuring that no gap in provision occurs. Since July 2023, the authority has already intervened to save 31 bus services across West Yorkshire after private operator cuts.

The move comes as WYCA continues to bring buses under public control through a franchising model, which will allow it to set routes, fares, and service standards directly rather than leaving them to private operators.

Mayor of West Yorkshire, Tracy Brabin, said:

“We will continue to do everything we can to step in and save vital bus services. These cuts are symptomatic of the failed deregulated bus market and are another example of why we need to bring services under public control.”

A spokesperson for First Bus added:

“We regularly review our networks, using our own data on public usage and taking input from the combined authority, to balance resources with overall demand. Our most recent review identified these Bradford routes where customer demand is insufficient to cover costs. We continue to work proactively with the combined authority and will carefully consider its plans for these services when more information is available.”

The WYCA confirmed that the retendering process for the affected routes will be completed before May 2026, safeguarding continued bus access for local communities.