New franchises for New Lantao Bus and Kowloon Motor Bus
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The spokesman added that the current franchise of NLB will expire on March 1, 2027, whereas that of KMB on July 1, 2027. The two franchised bus operators have already indicated to the Government their interests in applying for new 10-year franchises. In accordance with the Public Bus Services Ordinance (Cap. 230), the Chief Executive in Council may grant to a company a franchise conferring the right to operate a public bus service for a period not exceeding 10 years. The Ordinance also requires a franchisee to maintain a proper and efficient public bus service to the satisfaction of the Commissioner for Transport at all times during the franchise period.
"Franchised bus service plays an important role in the public transport system. Though facing rising operating costs and changing travel patterns, NLB and KMB have been providing proper and efficient bus services. They are also willing to continue making long-term investments to keep providing passengers with high-quality franchised bus services. In handling the arrangements for the new franchises, the Government will endeavour to strive for the stability of franchised bus services to meet Hong Kong's future development and the needs of passengers. The Government will also push ahead with the enhancement of services and safety of the two franchised bus operators while ensuring that their operations and financial positions remain sound and sustainable," the spokesman said.
The Legislative Council Panel on Transport discussed the services of NLB and KMB as well as matters relating to the new franchises on March 20, 2026. The relevant document may be downloaded from the websites of the Transport and Logistics Bureau (www.tlb.gov.hk) and the Transport Department (www.td.gov.hk). Members of the public may put forth their views on the two franchises by post (Bus and Railway Branch, Transport Department, 16/F, South Tower, West Kowloon Government Offices, 11 Hoi Ting Road, Yau Ma Tei), fax (2802 2679) or email (bus-franchise@td.gov.hk) on or before September 28, 2026.
Ends/Friday, August 28, 2026
Issued at HKT 10:08
Issued at HKT 10:08
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