North East Bus Revolution: 500+ Routes Could Be Transformed Under Major New Plan

Residents are being asked to decide the future of a bus network used by more than 300,000 passengers every day.

People across the North East are being asked to have their say on plans that could bring more than 500 bus routes back under public control in the biggest shake-up of the region’s bus network in over four decades.

The North East Mayoral Strategic Authority has launched a public consultation on the proposed bus franchising scheme, which would give Mayor Kim McGuinness control over key decisions including routes, timetables, fares and service standards.

Private operators would still run the buses, but they would work under contracts with the authority rather than operating independently on a commercial basis.

If approved, the scheme would see the mayor protect existing services from cuts for the next 10 years and expand the network.

The authority said the North East bus network has declined significantly since 2010, shrinking by almost a third. Many services have become less frequent, while evening and weekend routes have been reduced or removed altogether.

‘Something has to change’

Mayor Kim McGuinness said residents had repeatedly raised concerns about unreliable, expensive and inconvenient bus services.

She told the BBC that the changes could bring more dependable journeys, fare stability and a network that better reflects what passengers need.

“People tell me all the time that the bus doesn’t turn up or arrives late,” she said.

“They can’t rely on it to get to work.

“More people use the bus than any other form of public transport, so something has to change.”

McGuinness said the consultation gives everyone across the region, including those who do not currently use buses, the chance to influence the future of local transport.

Residents urged to weigh up risks

The authority’s cabinet unanimously agreed in March to consult on the proposals following an assessment of the scheme.

Residents are being asked to consider both the potential benefits and risks, including the authority taking on greater financial responsibility for a network used by around 317,500 passengers every day.

Henry Kippin, chief executive of the North East Mayoral Strategic Authority, said the public consultation would allow people to compare the proposed franchising model with the current system involving councils and private operators.

“We want people across the North East to consider our plans, including the new responsibilities and risks we would take on,” he said.

The consultation will run until 28 September, with more than 30 public events taking place across the region.

Feedback gathered during the consultation will help shape the final decision on whether the franchising scheme should go ahead.