Experts at the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT UK) have welcomed the rubber stamping of the Bus Services Act 2025 as a long-awaited opportunity to reshape England’s bus network — but warns that the law’s success will depend on clear definitions, adequate funding, and real action beyond headline announcements.

The Act hands local authorities new powers to plan routes, set fares, and even operate their own bus services, with a focus on protecting socially necessary routes and improving passenger safety. However, bus specialists at CILT (UK) stress that without secure long-term funding and transparent guidance, the ambitions of the Act could falter before they reach passengers.

Austin Birks FCILT, CILT(UK) Vice Chair of the Board and Chair of the Bus & Coach Forum, reacted by saying: “This is a great move to keep buses and coaches essential for transportation in Britain. It's crucial to protect rural bus services so everyone can reach schools, healthcare, shops, and leisure activities, which helps with work-life balance and overall wellbeing.

“Our recent CILT UK Busmark survey highlighted the need for women to feel safe on public transport, making extra training for frontline staff a positive addition. Allowing local authorities to design their own networks, routes, and fares will provide passengers with more options than ever.”

The institute believes the act is promising and could change the bus industry – but for lasting success, adequate funding from the Government and local authorities is necessary. A step in the right direction, but ongoing funding and support will be vital.

Lee White, CILT (UK) Bus & Coach Policy Group Chair, added: “The new Act offers essential clarity and assurance on how effective bus services can be provided in the future. It allows councils greater flexibility and strengthens collaboration between operators and local authorities, setting the stage for more reliable, long-term networks. However, ongoing funding and clear definitions of what constitutes a ‘socially necessary’ service will be vital for success.

“While the Act includes provision for the Secretary of State to set a future date for ending the use of fossil-fuelled buses, this is not yet a concrete measure. Achieving a full transition to zero-emission fleets will require sustained investment and support from both central government and the wider industry. Overall, this Act represents a positive and practical step forward in shaping the future of bus services across England.”

Background Bus Services Act 2025

The forms part of the Government’s “Plan for Change” programme, aiming to boost local transport links and improve passenger experiences through:

• Greater local authority control of routes and fares.
• Protection of key community routes deemed “socially necessary.”
• Mandatory training to improve safety and reduce anti-social behaviour.
• Early provisions for future zero-emission transition.

CILT (UK) welcomes the intent but calls for clarity on how funding will be allocated, how success will be measured, and how local authorities will be supported to deliver genuine improvements — not just new structures.