Liverpool City Region Begins Return to Public Control of Buses with New Operators Appointed

The Liverpool City Region has taken a major step towards bringing its bus network back under public control, appointing two operators to run the first franchised services in the area since the 1980s.

The move marks the start of a significant overhaul of local bus services, with the Combined Authority assuming responsibility for routes, fares and timetables for the first time in more than 40 years. The transition follows a landmark decision taken in 2023 by Mayor Steve Rotheram to reintroduce public oversight of buses, making the Liverpool City Region only the second area outside London to do so.

Following a competitive procurement process, Stagecoach has been appointed to operate franchised services in St Helens, while Go-Ahead will run the network in Wirral. The first phase of the franchised system will begin in both boroughs in autumn 2026, ahead of a full regional rollout by the end of 2027.

Mayor Steve Rotheram said buses play a vital role in daily life for hundreds of thousands of residents but argued that the existing system had failed too many communities.

“For decades, services have operated without proper accountability, with rising fares, unreliable timetables and routes withdrawn with little regard for the people who rely on them,” he said. “Franchising gives us the tools to put passengers first, hold operators to account and build a network that genuinely works for our region. Today marks the beginning of a new era for buses in St Helens and Wirral.”

Under the new arrangements, passengers can expect early improvements focused on reliability and ease of use. Plans include more frequent and later-running services on key corridors, additional weekend services and better connections to essential destinations.

In St Helens, a new express route to Liverpool John Lennon Airport will be introduced, while in Wirral several routes will be extended to improve direct access to hospitals and rail stations.

Cllr Anthony Burns, Leader of St Helens Council, said bus franchising demonstrated the benefits of devolution, adding that residents would be among the first to benefit from improved connectivity and more dependable services that also support the borough’s net-zero ambitions.

Wirral Council Leader Cllr Paula Basnett described the changes as a “landmark moment” for the borough, highlighting the importance of reliable and affordable bus services in connecting people to jobs, education and healthcare.

Both operators welcomed their appointments. Rob Jones, Managing Director of Stagecoach Manchester & Merseyside, said the contract reflected the company’s long-standing commitment to the region and praised the efforts of its local workforce. Go-Ahead CEO Matt Carney said securing the franchise was a privilege and reaffirmed the company’s commitment to delivering high-quality public transport.

The return to public control forms part of a wider strategy to create a fully integrated transport system across the Liverpool City Region. Significant investment is being made to support the transition, including new depots, infrastructure upgrades and the introduction of more than 100 all-electric double-decker buses as part of the region’s net-zero carbon ambitions by 2035.

Funding for the transformation follows a £1.6bn transport settlement from government, supporting wider improvements such as new rail stations, walking and cycling routes and a future rapid transit system. Operator contracts will include strict performance targets covering punctuality, reliability and vehicle standards.

Further investment is also being directed into customer services and digital tools, including enhanced journey planning, real-time information and simplified ticketing, as the city region continues to modernise its public transport network.