Tower Transit will continue to deliver bus services on Jersey via its LibertyBus operation after being awarded a new 10-year contract by the Government of Jersey to start on 6 April 2025.
Incumbent LibertyBus retained the work after winning a comprehensive two-stage tender process. Tower Transit notes that the contract “reflects the Government’s commitment to providing sustainable, high-quality public transport for islanders and visitors.”
Value for money and delivery of a range of service improvements factored highly in the award. Across the life of the contract, LibertyBus says it will completely renew the existing fleet in alignment with the Government of Jersey’s carbon-neutral strategy.
That will include introduction of 22 ultra-low-emission, high-capacity buses to replace older vehicles within the first 12 months of the new agreement. The remaining fleet will undergo refurbishment during the early stages of the contract to ensure comfort and reliability.
Other improvements will see the installation of self-service ticket machines at Liberation Station, which is the network’s hub. Faster on-board ticketing systems will also be rolled out. LibertyBus will additionally exceed the number of routes and the frequencies required by the tender.
Speaking about the success, Tower Transit Group Managing Director Samuel Ribiero says: “We are delighted to have renewed the partnership with the Government of Jersey to continue to provide exceptional bus services for the next 10 years.
“This agreement will see continued investment in fleet replacement, including zero-emission vehicles. Our aim is to build on the network of services and support the Government of Jersey’s plans to deliver increased modal shift over the next decade.”
Tower Transit parent Kelsian Group CEO and Managing Director Clint Feuerherdt describes Jersey as “a model case for successful bus franchising” and says that Kelsian is proud to have contributed to the ongoing success of the island’s bus network.
“We will continue to utilise our leading experience in zero-emission solutions to deliver a world-class transport experience, tailored to the Jersey community,” adds Mr Feuerherdt.
Minister for Infrastructure Constable Andy Jehan underlines that the new contract with Tower Transit and LibertyBus reflects a commitment from the Government of Jersey to improve public transport while supporting its carbon-neutral ambitions.
“We are pleased to continue our partnership with LibertyBus and we look forward to seeing the positive impact of the new buses and service for islanders.”
Kelsian entered the Channel Islands market in 2022, when it purchased operations on Guernsey and Jersey from HCT Group after the latter entered financial difficulty.
