The UK Coach Operators Association (UKCOA) hosted its first regional event outside England on 23 September.
The event took place at Ilesbus UK’s new 25,000 square foot facility in Swansea and drew more than 70 delegates. The conference combined operator and supplier perspectives on challenges and opportunities facing the coach sector.
Speakers included Richard Marwood, Bus Programme Director at Transport for Wales, who outlined plans for franchising in four regional zones, and who stressed the importance of maintaining opportunities for SMEs alongside larger operators. Carl Widdowson from the Department for Work and Pensions discussed updates with the Driving Academy Scheme, which is offering funded pathways to attract new talent into coach driving — operators are encouraged to work closely with Job Centres to raise the profile of the profession. Supplier partners Daniel Morton of Ferdia, Del Haggerty of DH Team, and Ben Smith of Vectare discussed automation, recruitment and electrification, respectively.
The day’s keynote came from Victoria Davies, Traffic Commissioner for Wales, who reported performance improvements in PSV O-Licensing and warned operators to address safety management risks, particularly bridge strikes.
Host Ilesbus UK meanwhile showcased its new facility, alongside its range of Mercedes-Benz and Iveco-based minibuses and midicoaches.
Stephen Spendley, UKCOA Director of Operations, says the new regional format is designed to ensure members across the UK feel represented, and that more regional conferences are planned alongside the association’s AGM and national conference in 2026.
“I see an event like this as a way of showing that we aren’t just focused on central England and the problems where the majority of operators are based,” he says. “If you are in deepest Devon or Wales, we are still here to represent you, and by UKCOA going into the areas, it shows our commitment to operators in those regions.”
Adds UKCOA Managing Director Peter Bradley: “Initial feedback suggests that this has been a very successful day. We had a number of people from a very wide area, and a good mix of operators and suppliers, which is exactly what we wanted.
“The passion for the industry came across, both in terms of products produced and service provided. Ilesbus meanwhile put on a fantastic venue for us. Everyone has been appreciative and supportive. Feedback from this event will be informing what we do in March 2026, where we will be having our AGM and annual conference.”
More detail will be included in the October 2025 issue of routeone.
