Local transport authorities will be given the powers to take control of bus services under legislation being laid before Parliament today.

The new Buses Bill will allow councils to introduce a franchising system, under which they can decide routes, timetables and fares. 

Bus services in England outside of London were privatised in the 1980s before limited powers were granted to mayoral combined authorities as part of devolution.

Transport secretary Louise Haigh said: ‘After decades of failed deregulation, local leaders will finally have the powers to provide services that deliver for passengers.

‘With local communities firmly back in the driving seat, our bus revolution will save vital routes up and down the country and put passengers first.'

Transport spokesperson for the Local Government Association, Adam Hug, said: ‘These proposed measures recognise the fundamental role of local leadership in shaping future bus provision, which the LGA has long been calling for.'