Problem statement
The Liverpool City Region transport network is currently fragmented, with bus and rail operations lacking local accountability and cohesion. The transition to bus franchising and public control of Merseyrail by 2028 creates a technical challenge in unifying disparate data, ticketing, and scheduling systems into a single user experience.
Underserved audience
Commuters and transport users in the Liverpool City Region who currently navigate separate systems for buses and trains. This also serves the Combined Authority as they require tools to manage franchised operators and public service obligations.
Evidence summary
Evidence confirms the Liverpool City Region is taking back control of buses through franchising and rail services (Merseyrail) by 2028. The Mayor aims to create a 'joined-up' network where different modes work together as one, supported by DfT franchising manuals and new operator appointments.
Demand signal
Public commitments by the Metro Mayor to create a 'joined-up' transport network and the publication of a 138-page DfT bus franchising manual indicate high administrative demand.
Competition signal
Current systems operate in silos; while Citymapper provides data, it lacks the deep integration with local franchising KPIs and ticketing systems the LCRCA is moving toward.
Suggested solution
Develop a Mobility-as-a-Service (MaaS) platform specifically designed for the 're-municipalised' model, facilitating tap-and-go ticketing and cross-modal journey planning. The solution should provide a dashboard for the Combined Authority to monitor performance metrics of franchised private operators in real-time.
Monetisation angle
B2B SaaS licensing to the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority (LCRCA) and potential transaction fees or premium consumer features for unified smart-ticketing access.
- liverpoolcityregion-ca.gov.ukLiverpool City Region Combined Authority — Publicly owned, passenger-focused bus upgrades
Passengers will benefit from more frequent services, extended routes, and better links to hospitals and railway stations.
- liverpoolcityregion-ca.gov.ukLiverpool City Region Combined Authority — Operators announced for first franchised bus services
In one of the biggest shifts in local transport policy in a generation, the Liverpool City Region has appointed two new operators to run its first publicly cont
- gov.ukJan 29, 2026Department for Transport — Bus franchising manual
Practical guide to support local authorities with the bus franchising process.
- liverpoolcityregion-ca.gov.ukLiverpool City Region Combined Authority — Mayor sets out plan to take back public control of Merseyrail
Landmark move would bring Merseyrail services into public ownership and help create a simpler, more joined-up local transport network.
- bbc.co.ukJul 19, 2026BBC News — Merseyrail to be brought back into public control
Liverpool City Region is to take over when the current Merseyrail concession ends in 2028.
- liverpoolcityregion-ca.gov.ukLiverpool City Region Combined Authority — Transport and Bus Franchising
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Smart Interchange & Wayfinding for Windermere Station
Score 70/100
Institutional Brownfield Redevelopment Support in Liverpool City Region
Score 75/100
Temporary Accommodation Procurement and Move-On Platform
Score 87/100
Smart Interchange & Wayfinding for Windermere Station
Score 70/100
Institutional Brownfield Redevelopment Support in Liverpool City Region
Score 75/100
Temporary Accommodation Procurement and Move-On Platform
Score 87/100