Transport chiefs begin bus reform consultation

The consultation will run until 20 November

Transport chiefs have urged people to give their views on whether local bus services should be franchised.

The Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority said a review found hiring operators could be the best approach to reforming buses in the region.

A consultation on the idea, launched at 12:00 BST on Wednesday, would run until 20 November, it said.

Chief executive Rob Bridge said it was a "key step towards improving services" for communities.

During the 14-week consultation, a franchising solution will be compared with an enhanced partnership approach - whereby local authorities with operators set shared aims together.

A series of drop-in events are to be held for residents to have their say, with feedback delivered to Labour mayor of the authority, Dr Nik Johnson.

"The way our buses are currently operated is going to change, so this consultation matters," Mr Bridge said.

"We really want to hear from as many people and organisations as possible, so don't miss out and make sure you have your say."