The Welsh Government is inviting expressions of interest from operators to run some of its key bus services with a view to developing the franchise model.
According to the Contract Notice on the Sell2Wales website, “Welsh Ministers are seeking bus/coach operators to join a framework agreement for the supply of local bus contracts across Wales. These services will be operated as part of the Welsh Government-funded Trawscymru network and in full support of Welsh Government strategic priorities.”
Giving a deadline of 1200hrs on October 20, the notice also states that it is for “possible contracts for long-distance bus and coach routes” and what it calls “other strategic local bus” services.” It is reasonable to assume that the latter may include the service between Cardiff and the city’s airport in Rhoose.
A source close to the Welsh Government (WAG) told CBW that the notice was only an “invitation for expressions for interest for opportunities” – and comes a year after WAG announced it intended to “go down this route.”
Reacting to the news, a CPT spokesman told CBW: “CPT Cymru always welcome engagement with our partners in the Welsh Government and our colleagues in local authorities. Our members provide high quality vehicles and services across Wales. We are sure they can contribute positively to an enhanced Trawscymru network.”
