The West Yorkshire Combined Authority (WYCA) has taken its first step towards selecting bus operators to help run the region’s new Weaver Network.
This week the authority began a technical procurement process by opening its dynamic market procurement tool – an open list of pre-approved suppliers – for potential operators.
The process sets out strict criteria for any bus companies wanting to bid to run services in the region, to raise standards and ensure value for money.
A new West Yorkshire-wide, franchised network will see bus fares, routes and timetables set by the CA, with bus operators accepted and registered onto the dynamic market invited to bid for contracts to run services.
This work will ensure West Yorkshire becomes only the third area in the country, after Manchester and Liverpool city regions, to start the process of signing up operators to run franchised services.
The Weaver Network name is inspired by the region’s industrial textile past, and it is hoped the first contracts can be awarded in Spring/Summer 2026, to start in 2027.
Chair of the West Yorkshire Combined Authority’s Transport Committee Cllr Susan Hinchcliffe said: “We are eager to see franchised services running as soon as possible, and the new dynamic market ensures we are on the road to better buses.
“This is our opportunity to challenge operators to show us what they can offer as part of a new system where the passenger comes first.
“I invite operators large and small to get in touch and get involved, and help us to create a better-connected West Yorkshire.”
