After years of Tory bus deregulation, Labour is taking action to fix an archaic system and deliver a bus system that works for people, not profit.

Under new law currently going through the Senedd, bus services will be planned nationally but shaped by local needs and primarily delivered through franchise contracts with a mixture of bus companies across public and private sectors.

This is about making sure every community has access to a bus network that’s connected, simple to use and works for people.

The Welsh Labour Government is backing these measures with large investment. By March 2026, £600 million will have gone into supporting the bus network, including new fleets of buses, discounted fares for young people, and integrated ticketing. This isn’t just spending for the sake of it; it’s about ensuring value for every pound spent and building a bus service that properly works for everyone.

Franchising will be rolled out region by region, starting in South West Wales in 2027, with every part of Wales seeing change by 2030. But improvements are already underway.

The “Bridge to Franchising” programme in Mid Wales is already showing what the future could look like with smarter routes, new timetables and services linked to rail and active travel. Rural areas, often hardest hit by the fractured, unreliable current system, will finally receive the attention they need.

The Welsh Labour Government is also working closely with trades unions representing bus drivers and staff and with bus operators to ensure job protections, fair conditions and a workforce that’s supported and valued. This builds on the new protections set out in the UK Labour Government’s landmark Employment Rights Bill, currently going through Parliament.

Our vision is clear: one network, one ticket across Wales. This is a long-term commitment to reform of local transport. A simpler and more affordable bus network that better connects people to jobs, education, services and, ultimately, each other.

From this September, a new pilot will be rolled out, where 16 to 21-year-olds will benefit from fares capped at just £1 per journey and no more than £3 a day. This will make buses a genuine choice for young people while reducing reliance on other, less sustainable means of transport.

This is about giving us a fresh start and a clear plan – building something better, greener and more cohesive.

This is the difference having a Labour in government in Wales and Westminster can achieve together.

Cheers Drive!