The Association of Local Bus Company Managers (ALBUM) has said it is seeking to establish a “consistent message” around the importance of SME bus operators in South Yorkshire following confirmation that franchising will be pursued in the region.
The South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA) confirmed on 18 March that bus services there would move to a franchised model. It came after one of the largest public consultations on bus reform in the UK, where franchising received majority public backing.
The news was met critically by ALBUM, which reacted on 26 March with concerns that the work would negatively impact small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) within the bus sector.
ALBUM Chair and Nottingham City Transport Managing Director David Astill reiterated to routeone the Association’s belief that franchising will not address the challenges in South Yorkshire. He says ALBUM will now work with its members “to ensure a consistent message.”
“We’re not convinced franchising is required for South Yorkshire, but if that nevertheless is the Mayor’s decision, then we hope that the lots will be let in a suitable way that the SME sector can realistically bid and have a chance of winning,” he adds.
As part of its asks, ALBUM has called on SYMCA to adopt an inclusive franchising model that enables SMEs to compete; to invest in further bus priority measures; and to recognise the unique strengths of local operators.
