The government’s Bus Services Act has now officially become law as of the 27 October 2025. But what does this mean for local leaders and bus operators? The Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport UK (CILT UK) offers commentary and are here to break it down.

Why has the Bill been put in place?

In England, buses are currently the most used form of transport however close to 300 million fewer miles were driven by bus services in 2024 when compared with data from 2010. This is due to some passenger routes being scrapped in areas across the country, and the government hopes this new bill will be a solution to the “lack of accountability” shown to private operators when cutting bus routes.

What does the Bus Services Act do?

• Gives local authorities greater powers to control bus services.

 

• Tightens the rules for cancelling or changing bus routes.                                

 

• Requires councils to identify socially necessary bus services.

 

• Lifts the ban on local authorities creating their own bus companies.

 

• Mandates training for bus drivers and staff on dealing with anti-social behaviour and crime.

 

• Focuses training specifically on improving safety for women and girls.

 

• Is expected to “cut red tape” to make bus franchising easier and quicker to introduce

 

• Provides additional government funding for local authorities to support bus services.

What can we expect?

The government said it is already working with local authorities in York and North Yorkshire, Cornwall, Cumbria, Hertfordshire, Cheshire West and Chester as part of the Bus Franchising Pilots.

The Department for Transport (DfT) has stated the pilots “aim to explore how local authorities could take control of its bus network and transform rural services to work for everyone.”

CILT(UK) share comments on the Bus Services Act

Austin Birks Vice Chair of CILT(UK) and Chairman of the Institute’s Bus and Coach Forum said: “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 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.

“These initiatives are promising and could change the bus industry - but for lasting success, adequate funding from the Government and local authorities is necessary. It's a step in the right direction, but ongoing funding and support will be vital.”

Lee White, CILT(UK)’s Bus and Coach Policy Group Chair said: “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.”