The Liverpool City Region has officially begun the process of bringing bus services back under public control, marked by the launch of the first franchised services in St Helens and a multi-million-pound funding commitment from the central government.
The transition, which started on Sunday 6 September 2026, represents the first time since the deregulation of the 1980s that bus services in the region have been operated under a franchising model. Under the new system, the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority (LCRCA) takes responsibility for setting fares, routes, and timetables, tasks previously managed by private operators.
To support the rollout, the Department for Transport confirmed on 7 September 2026 that it is providing £86.3 million in funding. This financial backing is intended to facilitate the transition and support the network through to 2029.
Phased rollout across the region
The move to public control is being implemented in stages. Following the initial launch in St Helens, franchised services are scheduled to expand to the Wirral later this year, with a planned start date of 26 October 2026. The remainder of the region—including Knowsley, Liverpool, Sefton, and Halton—is expected to join the franchised network by the end of 2027.
For passengers in St Helens, the change has introduced immediate service updates. A new X3 express service has been launched, providing a direct link between St Helens town centre and Liverpool John Lennon Airport. Additionally, several routes that previously ran every two hours have seen their frequency increased to hourly services.
New fleet and “Metro” branding
The new network is being introduced under unified “Metro” branding, featuring a distinctive yellow, black, and grey livery. As part of the modernisation of the fleet, the LCRCA has ordered at least 207 new buses from manufacturer Alexander Dennis as part of a £57 million contract. The long-term goal is to have a fleet of 668 buses across the region by 2027, with vehicles also sourced from Wrightbus.
The transition also simplifies the ticketing system for commuters. Operator-specific tickets are being phased out in franchised areas in favour of Metro multi-operator tickets. The regional network will also continue to observe the £2 fare cap for single journeys.
Practical information for passengers
As the network transitions, passengers are advised of the following changes in the St Helens area:
- Fares: The £2 single fare cap remains in place, and Metro multi-operator tickets are now the primary ticketing option.
- Routes: The new X3 express service to Liverpool John Lennon Airport is now operational.
- Timetables: Increased frequencies have been applied to several local routes to improve reliability and access.
Residents in other parts of the Liverpool City Region will continue to use existing services provided by private operators until their respective areas are integrated into the franchised system over the next 15 months.