09/04/2026
Have your say on South Yorkshire's buses – from Wednesday 25 March to Sunday 17 May
South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA) has launched a survey which sets out some of the first improvements we’ll make when buses come under public control in South Yorkshire from September 2027.
From September 2027, SYMCA will take responsibility for setting routes, timetables, fares and service standards, with revenue reinvested directly into improving services. For the first time since the 1980s, the region will have the power to set clear expectations for reliability, cleanliness, accessibility and customer experience.
Change will not happen all at once. Franchising will be introduced in phases between 2027 and 2029 to keep the network stable while improvements are rolled out gradually. Some changes will be visible early on, while others will take longer as the full network comes under public control.
Proposals to improve South Yorkshire’s buses
The survey, which is open until midnight on Sunday 17 May, will give passengers, residents, businesses, and community groups the chance to share their experiences and priorities. The questions draw on what people have already told SYMCA about where the network falls short, focusing on improving links to key destinations, closing gaps in coverage and making services more reliable.
Working with local councils, we've used this feedback to help shape the first changes passengers will see in 2027, when buses in South Yorkshire begin moving back under public control for the first time in decades.
Potential priorities for the network include:
• More reliable buses that arrive when you expect them to
• Simple timetables that are easy to read and plan around
• Better evening and weekend services
• Making it easier to travel by bus to hospitals, workplaces, town centres, schools, colleges and the shops
Feedback will help us understand whether we’re focusing on the right priorities for day one, and as we continue to improve the network over time.
How to take part
We would like to hear as many views as possible about the proposals in the consultation to help shape a brighter future for public transport in South Yorkshire.
All the information and how to take part is available at
https://www.southyorkshire-ca.gov.uk/improving-bus-services
or by calling Traveline on 0800 952 0002 (weekdays between 07:00 and 19:00 and at weekends/Bank Holidays between 08:00 and 19:00) to request a paper copy.
How can you help?
Please get involved and have your say on our proposals for bus services when South Yorkshire's bus network comes back under public control from September 2027. I would be grateful if you could please also help us to promote this public consultation and encourage participation by directing your communities, family and friends to the above web page and contact points. Their feedback will help us create a bus network that better serves the needs of South Yorkshire residents.
Over the past year we’ve been listening to passengers, communities and local organisations to understand what matters most when it comes to bus journeys. You’ve told us buses need to turn up on time, reach more places, and be easier to plan and use.
