In a landmark move for public transport, the operators for the first publicly owned and managed bus services in the Liverpool City Region for generations have been officially confirmed. Metro Mayor Steve Rotheram has announced that Stagecoach and Go North West will be the providers under the new franchising model, marking a significant shift away from decades of deregulation.
A New Era for Local Transport
Speaking outside St Helens Town Hall, Mayor Rotheram heralded the development as the beginning of a public transport revolution. The historic decision grants the combined authority direct control over fares, routes, and timetables, a central pledge of Rotheram's administration. This move positions the Liverpool City Region as only the second area in England, following Greater Manchester, to bring its buses back under public control.
Operator Roles and Rollout Schedule
Under the newly signed agreements, Stagecoach has been appointed to operate the initial routes in St Helens, which will be the first of the six local authority areas to launch the service later this year. Go North West, which already operates services as part of Greater Manchester's Bee Network, will take over running buses on the Wirral, also set to commence later in 2026.
The comprehensive rollout will see services extended to Sefton, Knowsley, and Liverpool, with completion targeted for September 2027. This phased approach represents the first time bus services have been under public control since their deregulation under the Conservative government in the 1980s.
Commitment to Improved Services
Mayor Rotheram emphasised that the primary goal is to enhance services and provide a genuine, quality alternative to private car use. "We want to do an awful lot more for the people we represent on day one," he stated. "We're doing this to improve services... We want to see footfall increase because that means the farebox, which we now control, means we can do other things."
Councillor Anthony Burns, Leader of St Helens Council, expressed his delight at the borough leading the initiative. "We're delighted to be the first to go, delighted to see the two brand new buses outside, but more delighted at the difference it will make for our residents," he commented, highlighting the anticipated positive impact on the community.
The introduction of this franchising model signifies a major step in reshaping the region's transport landscape, with the combined authority now empowered to directly influence service standards and accessibility for all passengers.
