To answer the question I think if done right than franchising certain bus services could be a good thing especially vital services that don't make a profit.  Hartlepool is busy with buses during the day but come 6:30 on a evening most areas in the town stop getting a service. Franchising evening services and services to North Tees Hospital along with services to the Villages seasonal and School services would work.  It could potentially help struggling independents and every area would be served by some sort of service but the route and fairs would be decided by the council or unity authority. It could work.