Mark Hooper MS, Deputy Minister for Transport
I am pleased to announce the launch of a public consultation on proposals to inform the drafting of key regulations under the Bus Services (Wales) Act 2026, which received Royal Assent in February.
Buses play a vital role in communities across Wales, connecting people to work, education, healthcare and leisure. This legislation is intended to place people at the heart of how services are planned and delivered, supporting a more consistent, reliable and accessible network.
This consultation focuses on three key areas of the Act:
- Contracts (section 11) – the Act enables the Welsh Ministers to make regulations specifying the terms to be included in local bus service contracts.
- Provision of information to the Welsh Ministers (sections 27 and 28) – the Act enables Welsh Ministers to make regulations governing the provision of information and data about local bus services.
- Application of TUPE Regulations (section 37) – which enables the Welsh Ministers to make regulations to provide for the application of the Transfer of Undertakings (Protection of Employment) Regulations 2006 to transfers of employees in relation to local bus service contracts.
These proposals have been developed through engagement with local authorities, operators, trade unions and the wider sector, recognising the importance of strong partnership in delivering meaningful and lasting improvements to local bus services.
I invite all those with an interest in local bus services in Wales to share their views. This feedback will play an important role in shaping the regulations, helping to ensure they deliver a system that meets the needs of people and communities across Wales.