Bus services in the West Midlands are set to return to public control for the first time in 40 years following a decision by West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) Mayor, Richard Parke.

The transition to franchised bus services was officially approved during a WMCA board meeting on 9 May.

Under this new arrangement, Transport for West Midlands (TfWM), which falls under WMCA, will gain authority to establish fares, timetables and routes, whilst awarding contracts to private operators to run the services. 

The initial public-controlled services, likely to include a non-stop Sprint service connecting Walsall to Solihull via Birmingham city centre, are expected to launch in late 2027. The complete transition is scheduled to be finalised by 2029.

Mayor Parke stated: "For too long, our buses have been run for private profits, not public good. Today, that changes.

“The public have been clear - they want a better bus service under public control, and I've heard them loud and clear.

“I promised to take back control of our buses - and today's decision shows we're delivering on that promise.

“The work is now underway, and over the next two years we'll create a bus network that puts passengers first - reliable, affordable and run in the interests of the people that use them."

An extensive consultation revealed 75% of respondents who expressed a preference supported franchising. With buses accounting for 80% of public transport journeys in the region—totalling 236 million trips last year—the change represents a significant shift in transport management.

The WMCA aims to collaborate with bus operators and local councils to develop a well-used, low-emission network that will reduce traffic congestion and improve air quality.

While the new franchised operation will cost £22.5 million to establish over three years, TfWM experts claim every £1 invested in buses generates £12 for the local economy.

An independent audit last year concluded franchising would offer better value for public money, noting the current private operator-led network already relies on £50 million of annual taxpayer funding.