Stagecoach takes over island's bus services
UK-based bus operator Stagecoach has taken over the running of Guernsey's bus services.
The firm in September 2024 secured a five-year tender to take over from previous island operator CT Plus.
Environment and Infrastructure Committee Vice-President Deputy Adrian Gabriel said he was expecting a "smooth transition" in the coming weeks with new buses also in the pipeline.
He said there was "strength in using a national provider" with experience operating in rural communities "similar to that of Guernsey".
Stagecoach will take on most of the staff from CT Plus, which had run the service since 2012.
Gabriel said there would be no change to the livery of the existing buses, and talks were being finalised to bring a number of new States-owned buses.
Two Stagecoach-branded buses will also join the fleet from this week to ensure services run at capacity.
A new buses.gg website, Facebook page and app had previously been announced.
Stagecoach is set to run the service for the next five years, after which it can opt to continue for a further two years.
Where recruiting drivers has been in issue in the past, Gabriel said he was confident Stagecoach had the experience to address any future staffing challenges.
"They have drivers and contingency measures in the UK to draw on," he said.
The States said there would be no immediate changes to bus routes or fares as part of the new contract.
Any credit or time remaining on existing Puffinpasses will also be carried forward to use on the new services.
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