Welsh Labour unveils plans to re-regulate bus services

Welsh Labour has announced plans to re-regulate bus services across Wales in a move aimed at reconnecting communities, decarbonising public transport, and putting passengers first.

Cabinet Secretary for Transport Ken Skates shared details of the Bus Bill during the Welsh Labour Conference in Llandudno at the weekend, stating it will be introduced to the Senedd in March 2025.

The proposed legislation will reverse decades of deregulation, which Skates described as “disastrous” for passengers.

“The deregulation of the 80s has been disastrous for bus passengers, with commercial operators cherry-picking profitable routes and leaving the taxpayer to subsidise the rest. We have tolerated it for long enough,” Skates said.

He emphasised that the re-regulation will prioritise passenger needs over profits and integrate bus and train timetables, tickets, and routes.

“It’s what you could describe as taking back control,” he added.

A Greener, Connected Wales

The Bus Bill will also play a critical role in Welsh Labour’s decarbonisation agenda by modernising the bus fleet and introducing new technologies in public transport.

This announcement comes as part of a broader effort by Welsh Labour to enhance Wales’ transport infrastructure.

The government is already working with the UK Labour Government on plans to expand rail capacity in North Wales by 50% in 2026.

Backing from Westminster

Alex Barros-Curtis MP, Member of Parliament for Cardiff West, praised the collaboration between the Welsh and UK Labour Governments:

“By working together, our two Labour Governments have unlocked £21 billion of funding for the Welsh Labour Government, including an extra £1.7 billion in infrastructure spending.”

He added that the new Bus Bill is an important step toward reforming public transport and reconnecting Welsh communities.

Investment and Partnership

The funding unlocked by the two Labour Governments will also support freeports, city and growth deals, and coal tip safety projects.

This financial backing strengthens Welsh Labour’s ability to deliver on its commitments to modernise transport and address infrastructure needs.