(09 Jul 2026, 10:44 pm)S830OFT wrote I see Mr F has posted on his Social Media that he has been approached by Mrs Mayor to give his views on Bus Franchising.

I'm sure he will be rehearsing how to get some money from the magic money tree whilst there, maybe could pay off one's debts.

He's no James Nightingale...

Isn't it just (edited) that all PSV Operator licence holders in the region (or perhaps, all that have had registered bus services) have automatically been included in the consultation? So it's not as if City Transport are being asked to contribute because they have some special role.

re opportunities for City Transport (and other small firms):
Generally: franchising looks to be heading mainly to big, depot-sized, packages of work, except for peak time schoolday services etc. If it's done like that, it would effectively exclude even the "big" small firms from a role in the main network. The likes of Northstar and Weardale Motors are excellent, capable, operators of "proper" services for Nexus and Durham, and it would seem a shame if they are effectively excluded in favour of multi-national / private equity conglomerates...