TfL to launch new public bus operator
Buses for London will begin running services in late 2027, starting with route 6 between Willesden and Victoria.
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Transport for London (TfL) has announced the creation of a new publicly owned company, Buses for London, which will begin operating services across the capital from late 2027. This marks a significant step in TfL's strategy to enhance the bus network for both drivers and passengers.
Initial Services and Future Plans
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The new company's operations will commence with route 6, connecting Willesden and Victoria station. TfL plans to introduce four additional routes under the management of Buses for London starting in 2028. The exact locations for these future routes are yet to be announced. This phased approach will see the public company gradually take over a small number of routes from the nearly 700 currently contracted to private operators.
Goals for the New Operator
The establishment of Buses for London is intended to give TfL greater oversight of service operations. This increased control is expected to lead to more reliable and safer bus services, with any profits generated to be reinvested into improving the transport network. Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, stated that the launch presents an opportunity to "reimagine our bus network so that it provides better value for money, supports our climate goals, makes our roads safer, and overall just works better for passengers and drivers alike."
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Lorna Murphy, TfL's director of buses, described the initiative as "an exciting new chapter." She highlighted that a depot in the Old Oak regeneration area will serve as the base for a new fleet of zero-emission buses, contributing to TfL's sustainability targets.
Industry Reactions
Trade unions have welcomed the move. Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said the union had long advocated for public ownership, arguing that outsourcing had not benefited workers or passengers. She expressed expectations that Buses for London will set standards for pay, terms, and conditions.
However, private operators have voiced concerns. The Confederation of Passenger Transport (CPT) suggested that a new public operator would not resolve existing issues, such as congestion and slow journey times. Graham Vidler, chief executive of CPT, stated that investment should focus on tackling congestion and improving bus priority measures, noting that buses in London currently average only 9 mph. He also warned that the creation of a new public entity could deter future investment from private operators.
What Happens Next
TfL will announce further details regarding the additional routes to be operated by Buses for London from 2028. The company is expected to begin operations with its new fleet of zero-emission buses from its Old Oak depot.
Questions this report answers
+When will the new public bus company start running services?
The new publicly owned bus company, Buses for London, is scheduled to begin operating services from late 2027. Initially, it will run route 6 between Willesden and Victoria station, with more routes to be added from 2028.
+What are the main goals of launching Buses for London?
The primary aims are to reimagine the bus network for better value for money, support climate goals, and enhance safety for passengers and drivers. TfL also seeks greater control over service operations and aims to reinvest profits into network improvements.
+How many bus routes will the new company operate?
Buses for London will initially take over a handful of routes, starting with route 6. Four additional routes are planned to be operated from 2028. This represents a small fraction of the nearly 700 bus routes currently contracted to private operators in London.
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