BOLTON bus users can look forward to a 'London-style' bus network after new legislation was published.

The new Bus Services Bill proposes new powers to allow combined authorities with an elected mayor to franchise bus services.

This will enable Greater Manchester to bring in an integrated network with a simple fares and ticketing system.

Transport chiefs have welcomed the move — which will allow local leaders to take control of bus service planning with private operators contracted to run routes under a franchise agreement.

Bus franchising is a model that is already used in global cities including London, Sydney and Amsterdam.

Cllr Andrew Fender, Chair of The Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) Committee, said: “Under a franchised system the elected Mayor for Greater Manchester will have the ability to decide the routes, frequencies, timetables, fares and quality standards for bus services in the city-region.

“This will help deliver a consistent, integrated transport network and make it possible for every passenger to use their tickets on any bus in Greater Manchester, as well as other forms of public transport.

“It will place the customer at the heart of Greater Manchester’s transport network and enable the reinvestment of funds back into transport.”

Greater Manchester currently has a deregulated bus system, where 80 per cent of services are provided on a commercial basis by bus companies.

For these services the routes, fares, frequencies and quality standards are decided by the bus operators. Local bodies have no control over commercial bus services.

Interim mayor of Greater Manchester Tony Lloyd said: “It is absolutely right that Greater Manchester should have the ability to decide what transport network it wants and needs to help support our city-region and its growing economy.

“Alongside other devolved powers over health, housing and skills, the powers outlined in the Bus Services Bill would allow our region to plan strategically for the future and ensure that transport links people with jobs, skills and education."