TAC discusses new franchises for three franchised bus companies

The following is issued on behalf of the Transport Advisory Committee:

     As the current franchises of Citybus Limited (Franchise for the Airport and North Lantau bus network) (Citybus (Franchise 2)), Long Win Bus Company Limited (LW) and New World First Bus Services Limited (NWFB) will expire in 2023, the Government plans to engage the three franchised bus companies in discussion on the granting of new franchises for their bus networks. The Transport Advisory Committee (TAC) today (June 29) discussed the requirements of the new franchises.
      
     The TAC Chairman, Professor Stephen Cheung, said, "Members are pleased to note that Citybus (Franchise 2), LW and NWFB have been providing a proper and efficient bus service within the current franchise period. The franchisees have indicated an interest in applying for new 10-year franchises, and are willing to continue to invest for further service enhancement. According to an independent survey by a consultancy firm commissioned by the Transport Department (TD), over 90% of respondents were satisfied with the overall service quality of the three bus companies.
      
     "Members noted that the Government will engage in discussion with Citybus (Franchise 2), LW and NWFB, with a view to concluding the discussion and granting new 10-year franchises before expiry of the current franchises of the three service providers in 2023. Members have offered comments on the requirements of the new franchises for the bus networks of Citybus (Franchise 2), LW and NWFB for the Government's reference. Members also noted that the Government has invited members of the public to provide their views to the TD in writing by September 10, 2021."