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Wirral's bus network is getting a major makeover with new routes and brand-new buses set to hit the road, with publicly controlled bus services beginning next month.
The Liverpool City Region has managed to get buses under public control for the first time since the 1980s.
From October 25, passengers will start to see several changes in their Wirral buses, with more frequent buses and extended routes, and better timetables on Sundays across Wirral buses.
One of the biggest changes will be increased frequency, with services currently running every two hours becoming hourly. Some routes will also be extended, helping to improve connections across Wirral.
New direct links to Wirral's important Arrowe Park and Clatterbridge hospitals will be made, ensuring passengers can easily get to and from appointments.
Bus services aren't just being refreshed. Passengers in the Wirral can expect new low-emission buses to take to the streets, with USB charging and comfortable seating.
Another change is coming involving Wirral's bus numbers. Every Wirral service will be given a 4 in front of its number, with the aim of keeping a simpler numbering system across the area.
For example, the current 17 will become the 417.
The changes are part of the Liverpool City Region’s move to bring buses back under public control for the first time in more than 40 years. The Combined Authority says this will give it greater control over when, where and how often services run.
The Wirral rollout follows the launch of publicly controlled services in St Helens earlier this month, with Liverpool, Knowsley and Sefton due to follow by the end of 2026.
Councillor Paula Basnett, Leader of Wirral Council, said: "This is one of the biggest changes to our bus network in a generation and an important milestone for public transport in Wirral. Residents have told us they want services that are reliable, affordable and fit around their lives, and that's exactly what these improvements are designed to deliver.
"Whether it's getting to work, college, hospital appointments or spending time with family and friends, better bus services help connect people to opportunity. More frequent services, better evening and weekend connections, and improved links to major hospitals will help people get where they need to be more easily and conveniently.
"These changes are a great example of how investment in public transport can deliver real benefits for residents while helping us build a better connected, greener and more inclusive borough."
