Landmark bus reform law receives Royal Assent
Landmark legislation to reform the way local bus services are planned and delivered in Wales has received Royal Assent and is now law.
The Bus Services (Wales) Bill was formally sealed by First Minister, Eluned Morgan, at a ceremony in Cardiff on Monday 2 February.
The Welsh Government says the legislation puts Wales at the forefront of bus reform in the UK and marks the start of a process to transform local bus services, with a stronger role for the public sector in shaping networks in both rural and urban areas.
In the coming months, the Welsh Government and Transport for Wales will work with local authorities, Corporate Joint Committees, bus operators, trade unions and the public to design services using local knowledge, with passengers’ needs placed at the centre of planning.
Eluned Morgan said the legislation sent a clear message about the government’s commitment to public transport.
“This is a historic day for public transport in Wales – it sends out a clear message that we are committed to improving the bus system and delivering better, more reliable services for the people of Wales.
“Buses are lifelines for many communities across Wales connecting people to jobs, health services, education and friends, and I’m excited to see the improvements that are coming.”
Cabinet Secretary for Transport and North Wales, Ken Skates, said the law marked the beginning of long-term change.
“Today marks a major milestone for bus services in Wales.
“It’s the beginning of a new era that will bring some new and exciting changes for people across Wales.
“These changes won’t be seen overnight, it’s going to take time, but we are working closely with the industry and local authorities to plan and deliver bus services to meet the needs of passengers today and for generations to come.”
The Welsh Government says the new system is expected to begin rolling out in southwest Wales in 2027, followed by north Wales in 2028, southeast Wales in 2029 and mid Wales in 2030.
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