Hertfordshire could soon have 'more reliable' bus services

Hertfordshire County Council is progressing with its involvement in the Government’s Bus Reform and Franchising Pilot Programme.

The council believes bus franchising could improve routes, fares, and service standards by giving it more control over how services are run.

North and East Hertfordshire, including Stevenage, have been identified as promising areas to pilot the scheme.

Mark Doran, executive director for growth and environment at Hertfordshire County Council, said: "This is an exciting step for Hertfordshire.

"More regular and reliable bus services could make a real difference to our residents.

"Our early work shows there is real potential here, and government funding will help us explore this fully.

"We want to make sure public transport works for the people who rely on it for everyday journeys."

The council now plans to request additional funding from the Government to support the next stage of the pilot.

This would include a statutory franchising assessment involving detailed analysis and public consultation.

Councillors on the Environment, Transport, and Growth panel unanimously backed the plan in principle during a meeting on April 16.

A further update will be presented to the June 2026 Environment, Transport and Growth Panel.