Having observed the Bus Networks recently, there seems to be a scheme by some of the Liberal Bus Operators, namely (the big three) to make their Network so awful that the idea of a franchised model would appeal even more, with those big companies waiting for guaranteed contract work.

Not to mention, certain operators buying up all the small coach companies to reduce competition & have other bases in areas close to where they may be operating bus services in the future.

I am aware Networks have been dropping for years, although since Covid, there was a commercial effort to encourage bus usage back up, although moreover in more recent times they just seem to want handouts to provide a service, increase frequencys, or introduce new vehicles, rather than attempt to be innovative & improve their services.