Since December 2024 we've been working with South Yorkshire Combined Mayoral Authority (SYMCA) to get Hallam students' opinions on the consultation to franchise the bus network. Put simply, the proposal to franchise the South Yorkshire bus network would effectively bring buses into public control, giving SYMCA the power to set routes, prices, and maybe most importantly, student fare discounts.

On 10 December we carried out our '10-foot testimony' event (which quickly became a 20-foot testimony!) in the foyer of the Owen building, where we saw over 100 students share their experiences of using buses in South Yorkshire, and reps from SYMCA gathered input for the consultation. We've since shared these experiences (the good, bad, and ugly!) with SYMCA and, following our event, engagement with the consultation from under 25s doubled!

It was announced last week that following the consultation, SYMCA has taken the decision to franchise the bus network, which is great news! It means SYMCA will be able to decide what routes buses take, how much tickets cost, and of course that all important student fare! Whilst these changes won't happen overnight, and the franchising itself is likely to come into effect in 2027, we're excited to see how the decision will improve bus services for students in the region.

Our next steps are to continue the conversation with South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority and work towards a fairer buses deal for students. We'll also be continuing to work with Abtisam Mohamed MP (Sheffield Central) to advocate for students in parliament on the development of the Bus Services (No.2) bill, and in particular ensuring all students are included in amendments to support young people, regardless of age. We're grateful to have a positive working relationship with both SYMCA and Abtisam Mohamed MP, and confident we can achieve positive change on both a local and national level.

We'll be discussing issues around public transport at the next Sheffield Students' Assembly on Thursday 8 May, where Hallam students will have the chance to put their questions to South Yorkshire Mayor Oliver Coppard.

Grab your free ticket to have your say.