WMCA Takes Control of National Express West Midlands Bus Operations

The West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) has moved to safeguard a vital public-transport service after the private operator, National Express, signaled a withdrawal from its West Midlands bus network. The authority argues that decisions driven solely by commercial considerations have left passengers and communities vulnerable. The acquisition is presented as a step toward a franchised model, which the WMCA plans to implement beginning in May 2025.

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• August 17 (occurred) – WMCA issued the Invitation to Tender for the first tranche of the West Midlands Bus Franchising programme, officially launching the procurement phase.

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• Autumn (expected) – Completion of the managed acquisition, subject to final due-diligence checks.

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• May 2025 – WMCA Board endorsed the decision to franchise the bus network, a policy that remains unchanged.

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• The West Midlands bus network has served approximately 210 million passenger journeys per year for about 40 years.

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• The acquisition will be carried out through West Midlands Bus Limited, an arm-length subsidiary that will retain its own governance and operational management while remaining separate from the WMCA’s day-to-day functions.

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• Richard Parker, Mayor of the West Midlands, explained that the move was necessary to prevent a loss of service: “I wasn’t prepared to stand by and watch hundreds of buses disappear from our roads because a private company decided to walk away.” He emphasized that the buses are a public service that must operate in the public interest.

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• WMCA officials confirmed that pension arrangements for staff will remain unchanged and that the acquisition is designed to protect services, maintain network stability and support the transition to franchising.

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• “I wasn't prepared to stand by and watch hundreds of buses disappear from our roads because a private company decided to walk away.” — Mayor

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The WMCA will continue to provide updates as the acquisition progresses toward its autumn completion. Following the handover, the authority plans to advance the franchising process, with the first tender round already launched. Day-to-day bus operations will remain with West Midlands Bus Limited, ensuring continuity for passengers while the broader restructuring toward a franchised system unfolds.

Birmingham Mail