More than 1,000 people have shared their view on bus reforms - here's how to get involved

In January, Transport for West Midlands launched a formal consultation on a proposal to move the region’s bus network to a franchise model from the current private operator-led deregulated system.

And the two questionnaires have attracted a range of views and, as of February 12, a total of 927 have responded to the short nine-question one while a further 212 have answered the 43 question long one.

There are just over six weeks to go before the consultation exercise finishes on March 30.

After his election in May last year, Mayor Richard Parker outlined his vision for bus reform, saying moving to a franchise model would give Transport for West Midlands more control over fares, routes and timetables.

West Midlands Combined Authority currently provides an annual subsidy of around £50 million to private operators but this has failed to stop fare increases and service reduction.

The consultation has provoked a mixed response, with many in favour of franchising, some remaining neutral or undecided and a number who are opposed to it.

As well as commenting on the proposed franchise model, people have also called for passes being available on all modes of transport, cutting fares and protecting existing services.

One participant said: “Buses have been coming more frequently lately however some of the things I have experienced with the bus services do not reflect how I want my commute to work.

“I have been driven past by a bus driver for no apparent reason, seen harassment and intimidation on buses and been on the receiving end.

“A lot of the buses running less popular routes often don’t turn up on time if at all and the school routes don’t conform to their schedule as to avoid the school kids.

“I believe giving the West Midlands Combined Authority more power over the buses will bring good and important change as it may allow the people to have more control over bus routes, fares and other public transportation needs.”

Another said: “There is a need to be brave! People will not feel able to give up their cars, or one of their cars, for inadequate local provision.

“Even in rural areas, where the volume/ demand may be lower, there is a need (possibly by extending existing routes) to offer regular and frequent services which allow people to get to and from work, and to go out at evenings and weekends, by bus.”

But one person said: “I think (franchising) is a halfway house towards public ownership and will fail because it’s trying to appease the bus users and bus companies. The focus has to be on service, not profit.”

One participant added: “It may offer value for money, but duplication will need to be reduced.

“Cuts will end up taking place but the quality needs to remain. It’s all good being cheap and cheerful, but reliability needs to be kept, without frequency not hindered.”

People will be able to take part in the online consultation by visiting the Transport for West Midlands website at https://www.tfwm.org.uk/consultations/bus-reform/.