Mayor invites residents to help name future transport network

The West Midlands public transport network is to get a fresh look and a brand new name.

Richard Parker, Mayor of the West Midlands, is asking the public to put forward their suggestions for what the region’s transport should be called.

The major makeover is part of the Mayor’s ongoing plan to bring buses back under public control for the first time in four decades.

The flagship franchising policy is ushering in a new era for the way bus services are run, with passengers at the heart of decision making.

So as preparations continue for the initial roll out this time next year, Mayor Richard Parker is asking local residents to get their thinking caps on and submit their ideas or suggestions for the network’s new identity.

This new era for the region’s buses has presented the opportunity to create a fully integrated public transport network, bringing buses, trains and trams together under a single banner.

He is searching for name that reflects the West Midlands, creates a distinct identity and instils pride across the region. The branding of the network will start with buses before being expanded across the entire public transport network.

The Mayor said: “I’m taking back control of our buses so they’re affordable, reliable and offer journeys people actually need. Because the network will be publicly controlled, we want the public to help us name it.

“The West Midlands is known for its endless creativity, innovation and good humour. So I want to see your ideas, whether it’s something inspired by our history, our culture, or just puts a smile on people’s faces when they see it on the side of a double-decker.”

People can submit their ideas via the Your Bus, Your Say website or reply on the Mayor and Transport for West Midlands (TfWM) social media channels, which will be monitored for suitable ideas. These will be collated and considered as part of a wider process to create a new identity for the transport network.

Under the new franchising model, routes, timetables and fares will be set by the Mayor and the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA), making the network directly accountable to the public. Private operators will compete for contracts to deliver reliable, efficient, and high-quality services rather than operating on a deregulated, commercially driven basis.

Once franchised, bus services operating across the West Midlands will share the same branding, colour scheme and fare structure, no matter which company is awarded the contract. These will be announced next year ahead of the launch of the first franchise services in October 2027.

In August companies were invited to bid for these first three contracts covering Coventry, north Birmingham and Walsall, with services due to launch in October 2027.

The second phase will launch in Dudley, Sandwell and Wolverhampton in 2028 and the final third phase in Solihull and south Birmingham in 2029.

To find out more and comment on the plans for the future of bus services visit the Your Bus, Your Say campaign website: Shaping what comes next for buses | West Midlands Voice