Scotland to bring bus network under public control by 2031

First Minister John Swinney has announced that Scotland's bus network will be brought under public control by 2031. Speaking at the SNP annual conference in Aberdeen, Swinney stated that the government intends to implement changes to franchising and regulation by the next election.

The proposed changes aim to grant regional transport partnerships greater authority over bus routes and fares without requiring direct government ownership. A Bill is expected to be tabled in Holyrood next year.

Additionally, the £2 bus fare cap will be extended to Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire starting in April. The government plans to expand this cap to cover the entire country by the end of the parliamentary term in 2031. Scottish Labour deputy leader Jackie Baillie expressed support for the pledges, stating the party will work with the government to ensure delivery in the interest of the public.