Publicly-owned bus firm set to drive into London

A publicly-owned bus company has been unveiled for London.

Transport for London says the “major milestone” move aims to improve services for drivers and passengers.

Route 6, which runs between Willesden and Victoria station, will be the first service to operate under the new name when Buses for London launches in late 2027.

A further four routes – set to be announced over the coming year – are slated to begin operations from 2028.

Transport for London contracts bus services to eight privately-owned operators across the capital’s almost 700 bus routes.

The transport body said the creation of a publicly-owned bus company will afford it greater control over how services are run.

Lorna Murphy, Transport for London’s director of buses, said: “This marks an exciting new chapter for London’s buses and an important first step in exploring how a publicly-owned bus company could support the future of the capital’s transport network.”

Sharon Graham, Unite general secretary, added: “Outsourcing to private companies hasn’t worked well for workers or passengers.

“This news is a positive step.”

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