TfL unveils Buses for London as publicly owned bus company

Transport for London (TfL) has unveiled Buses for London, a new publicly owned bus company that is expected to begin operating services in the capital from 2027.

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The company will initially take over a small number of routes currently operated by private contractors, with TfL planning to expand its directly operated network over time. The first route is expected to be route 6, running between Willesden and Victoria, with services due to transfer to Buses for London in late 2027.

TfL currently plans and manages London's bus network but contracts private operators to run most services. The capital has operated under a franchised model for decades, with TfL determining routes, frequencies, fares and service standards while private companies bid for operating contracts.

The creation of Buses for London follows changes to legislation that allow local authorities in England to establish their own bus companies. Government guidance published in 2026 sets out the framework for local authority-owned bus companies, including their potential use within franchised networks.

TfL said the new company would provide an opportunity to test different approaches to bus operation and create a direct operational benchmark against which contracted services can be assessed. Its wider objectives include improving accountability and efficiency and supporting the needs of passengers and the bus workforce.

The move has been under development for several years. TfL's 2026 business plan committed the organisation to developing detailed proposals for a publicly owned bus company and assessing how direct operation could support innovation, efficiency and accountability. London Mayor Sadiq Khan has previously said that an in-house operator could provide a benchmark for other bus companies operating under contract, including in areas such as workforce conditions and safety.

The new company will operate within London's existing franchised bus system rather than replacing it. TfL will continue to determine the overall network and contract other operators to provide the majority of services.