The Bus Services Act 2025 has now received Royal Assent and has become law as of yesterday, 27th October.
Reacting to the news, ALBUM Chair David Astill said, “this is a momentous piece of legislation for our industry, and ALBUM is delighted to have played an active role with DfT through the consultation process, in helping to shape the final version of what was the Bus Services (no2) Bill.
The Act gives far greater powers to local authorities to influence the way bus services are delivered.
“We accept that that the larger city regions may conclude that the franchised approach suits them best. Elsewhere, we hope that the Enhanced Partnership model will retain favour”.
He continued “Either way, ALBUM’s focus will be to represent and protect the views of the municipal and SME sector, who have much to offer in their areas of operation. ALBUM will work hard to influence the guidance which will accompany the Act and ensure that the value and benefit that locally owned and locally managed bus companies bring to the market are recognised and embraced by the local transport authorities.
David concluded “The overriding purpose of the Bus Services Act 2025 is to grow bus patronage at a time when public finances are stretched. We encourage all LTAs to make the most of the skills and expertise of the SME bus operators in their areas, who have been willing and able to provide quality bus services at their own commercial risk in some cases, for generations.