West Midlands Bus Reform Gains Momentum After Positive Audit Review

Plans to overhaul the West Midlands bus network have received a boost after auditors gave a favourable assessment of how the transition is being managed.

An internal audit report, due to be reviewed by the West Midlands Combined Authority’s (WMCA) Audit, Risk and Assurance Committee, found that the move towards a franchised bus system is being handled with “substantial assurance” in terms of governance and oversight.

The reform programme, a key priority for Mayor Richard Parker since his election in 2024, aims to shift the region away from a privately operated model to one where Transport for West Midlands has greater control over fares, routes and timetables.

According to the report, strong systems and processes are already in place to support the transition. Auditors highlighted effective engagement with stakeholders and clear governance arrangements, which have been widely communicated across the programme.

Only one area for improvement was identified, relating to the recording of meetings for the Bus Reform Programme Board and Panel. Auditors noted that a lack of formal minutes made it harder to evidence oversight and challenge, and recommended this be addressed to strengthen risk management.

The WMCA currently provides around £50m annually in subsidies to private bus operators, but this has not prevented rising fares or service reductions. The proposed franchising model is intended to deliver a more reliable and coordinated network for passengers.

Following a public consultation, the authority agreed in 2025 to move ahead with franchising. Implementation is expected to begin in late 2027, with the network rolled out in phases across nine local areas by 2029.

Overall, the audit findings suggest the programme is on a solid footing, with good practice already evident and leadership driving progress as the region prepares for one of the most significant changes to its public transport system in decades.