Auditors have expressed strong confidence in the management of the West Midlands' ambitious plan to overhaul its bus network. The West Midlands Combined Authority’s (WMCA) Audit, Risk and Assurance Committee is set to review an internal audit report on Monday, April 27, which evaluates the ongoing Bus Reform initiative.
This reform involves a significant shift from the existing private operator-led structure to a franchise model, granting Transport for West Midlands greater control over fares, routes, and timetables. The internal audit granted “substantial assurance” regarding the adequacy and robustness of the transition program, highlighting several areas of good practice.
One minor weakness was noted: meetings of the Bus Reform Panel have not been formally minuted, limiting documented oversight and challenge of update papers. The auditors recommended improving this process but emphasized that overall governance arrangements are well-defined and have been effectively communicated to stakeholders.
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West Midlands Mayor Richard Parker, elected in 2024, prioritized this transformational move, citing issues with the current deregulated system, which despite an annual £50 million WMCA subsidy, has seen fare hikes and service cuts. After public consultation, WMCA approved the franchising plan in May of the previous year.
The phased rollout will commence in late 2027, introducing nine local area franchises over three years, aiming for full implementation by 2029. The Director of Bus Reform, appointed in September 2025, has been credited with driving much of the good practice observed in the audit.
This development marks a critical step towards a more integrated and passenger-focused bus service across the West Midlands, promising improved quality and enhanced oversight of public transport in the region.