Bus Franchising in West Yorkshire – Market Engagement

In accordance with the provisions of the Transport Act 2000 (as amended by the Bus Services Act 2017) and having followed the legislative procedure set out within the same, the Mayor of West Yorkshire decided on 14th March 2024 to introduce a bus franchising scheme for the entire West Yorkshire Combined Authority (‘the CA’) area. The CA is now inviting new and existing Operators to participate in market engagement with the CA. The CA will provide further information on its requirements during the market engagement period. Operators expressing an interest will be invited to provide feedback on this. The format of the engagement is to be confirmed but may include group or 1-1 sessions with the CA, and written feedback. The CA anticipates the market engagement process will include 2 rounds; first in November/December 2024, and then in April/May 2025. The procurement of franchised bus services is anticipated to commence in the Autumn of 2025, following the legislative requirements of the Procurement Act 2023. Operators are invited to complete the MS Form linked below to register their interest in participating in this engagement. Operators should use this form to request any specific information they would like the CA to provide in market engagement which the CA will consider in its preparations. Additional information: MS FORM REGISTRATION LINK - https://forms.office.com/e/W3BVMvUC2E Please note market engagement or tender documentation is not available at this stage.