, the Mayor of the West
Midlands, is urging people to help him shape the future of bus
services by taking part in the consultation over bus reform ahead
of the March 30 deadline.
So far, more than 3000 people and organisations have commented on
the Mayor's plan to franchise the bus network, taking control
over fares, routes and timetables while offering greater value
for money for the taxpayer.
The Mayor's call came as he launched a new outdoor exhibition of
retro-style poster art celebrating some of the region's key
visitor destinations like Dudley Zoo, Coventry city centre and
Birmingham's Balti Triangle as part of a campaign to get more
people to travel by bus.
, Mayor of the West
Midlands, said: “This exhibition is a celebration of our buses –
the backbone of our public transport network. The designs capture
the vibrancy of our region and show how every journey tells a
story.
“Buses are an essential service, used by tens of thousands of
people every day to get to work, school, hospital and our high
streets. I have set out my vision to make them more accessible,
reliable and affordable, and I want everyone to be able to have
their say.
“This is our chance to build a bus service that works for
passengers, supports jobs and makes travel easier for everyone.”
The posters are part of Transport for West Midlands'
(TfWM) ongoing ‘You're Bussing It' promotional campaign
and on display in Birmingham's Colmore Row until April 15.
TfWM, part of the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA), has
teamed up with Colmore Business Improvement District (BID), I
Choose Birmingham website, local illustrator Milan Topalović, and
Wythall Transport Museum to bring the striking artwork to wider
audience.
As well as showcasing Milan's vibrant illustrations, the
exhibition also includes early sketches and concept designs,
offering a rare glimpse into the work behind the final posters.
Alongside these, Wythall Transport Museum has provided a
selection of heritage transport designs, celebrating the history
of buses in the region and how they continue to shape everyday
life.
Milan Topalović said: "Seeing my work displayed in the heart
of Birmingham is a huge moment for me. This exhibition offers
people a view into the creative process behind the posters,
showcasing the details, sketches, and the inspiration that shaped
them.
"Whether glimpsed fleetingly at a bus stop or explored up close
in this exhibition, I hope my designs spark curiosity and
encourage people to see bus travel in a new way - full of colour,
character, and adventure."
The bus reform consultation deadline is March 30, 2025. To
find out more and have your say visit the TfWM website.
