LibertyBus to run Jersey's bus service for another decade

LibertyBus will continue to run the Island’s bus service for at least another decade.

Following a two-year tender process, the Government of Jersey has awarded a new 10-year contract to the LibertyBus, who have operated the service since 2013.

As part of the new contract, LibertyBus have agreed to introduce 22 ultra-low emission, high-capacity buses, which will replace older vehicles within the next 12 months. The remaining fleet will undergo refurbishment in the early stages of the contract, ensuring improved comfort and reliability.

Over the life of the contract, LibertyBus has committed to a complete fleet renewal in alignment with the Government of Jersey’s carbon-neutral strategy. And to further enhance services, LibertyBus will exceed the number of routes and service frequencies required by the tender, providing what they say will be a ‘record high number of services’ to Islanders.

To improve customer experience, new self-service ticketing machines will be installed at Liberation Station, while faster ticketing systems will be rolled out across the bus fleet, ensuring quicker and more efficient boarding for passengers.

LibertyBus and its Guernsey equivalent, CT Plus, were both purchased by Tower Transit, a subsidiary of Australia’s Kelsian Group, in 2022. It was previously operated by CT Plus, prior to which it was run by Connex for 11 years.

When CT Plus took over, Islanders were asked to come up with a name for the service, and after LibertyBus was chosen, the company was founded in January 2013.

LibertyBus were selected for offering ‘best value for money’ and ‘a range of service improvements that align with the Island’s environmental goals’.

Constable Andy Jehan, Minister for Infrastructure, said: “This new contract reflects the Government’s commitment to improving public transport while supporting our carbon-neutral ambitions. We are pleased to continue our partnership with LibertyBus and look forward to seeing the positive impact of the new buses and service for Islanders.”