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Sadiq Khan Puts London Buses Back Into Public Ownership for First Time in 30 Years
The new company will start with about 100 zero-emission buses and aims to improve reliability, safety and reinvest profits into the network.
Transport for London is setting up its own bus company to run services directly, starting with route 6 between Willesden and Victoria in late 2027.
Currently, private firms operate all of London's 700 bus routes under seven-year contracts, but TfL claims running services directly will provide greater control over reliability and safety.
Park Royal Depot in west London will initially house about 100 zero-emission buses; OPDC chief executive Matthew Carpen said the depot will "temporarily support London's transport network."
Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said the move is a "positive step" toward ensuring well-paid, unionised jobs, following TfL talks with the union which has "long been" calling for public ownership.
Mayor of London Lord Khan said the move offers an "opportunity to really reimagine our bus network," while TfL director of buses Lorna Murphy called it an "important first step" with additional routes starting from 2028.