Bus service delivery options for Cambridgeshire & Peterborough

The challenge

The authority wanted to understand the needs of local communities in relation to bus services and from this insight determine the most appropriate model to deliver bus service improvements. With many stakeholders involved - each with different priorities - we worked closely with partners to navigate this complexity to gather insights and support the development of a bus strategy that could deliver meaningful change.

The solution

An overall Bus Strategy was created first. We carried out extensive market research through online surveys, interviews at bus stops, and focus groups, to understand public needs and priorities for bus services. This informed the creation of a Vision for Bus in 2020, which evolved into a full Bus Strategy aligned with the Local Transport and Connectivity Plan.

We conducted a Bus Franchising Assessment, in accordance with DfT guidance, to consider different options for delivering bus services across the region – Franchising or an Enhanced Partnership. Using the 5-case business case model, both options demonstrated High Value for Money, with franchising performing slightly better. This reflected the additional benefits from network integration, simplified fares and ticketing.

Our solutions were rooted in transparency, ensuring all parties were informed with the process and outcomes. We translated very technical information into messages that met the needs of different audiences.

The result

We gained a clear understanding of what people want from bus services across the region. The Vision for Bus in 2020 and comprehensive Bus Strategy formed the basis for the first Bus Service Improvement Plan (BSIP), setting out the ambitions for the bus network in response to the National Bus Strategy. 

The franchising assessment showed that franchising offered greater benefits through network integration and fare simplification. Following liaison with the independent auditor, the Mayor proceeded to consultation, supported by our materials and stakeholder engagement. 

In 2025, the decision was made to franchise the bus network across Cambridgeshire and Peterborough. We have since developed the Service Permit policy and conditions, defining the proposals for consultation.