Framework for bus services published

If they are awarded a place on the framework, local operators who provide bus and taxi services will then be able to bid for various transport contracts to meet defined service specifications. The first contracts to be let using the framework will be public bus and school transport contracts, in place from August 2026. The framework includes three 'lots' for public bus services, school bus services, and additional support needs (ASN) and adult social care transport.

The framework will have two stages. The first is framework entry, where interested operators will have the opportunity to gain a place on the framework subject to meeting selection and quality criteria. The second will be a competition stage with contracts awarded, either individually or in packages, to those operators submitting the most economically advantageous tender.

Having this new framework in place marks the first step in the procurement of all contracts which will start during the next four years, enabling Council and ZetTrans to directly engage with the market. Details of contracts for routes and services will be made available to those who gain a place on the framework.

Local transport operators and anyone who is interested in a bus or taxi contract are invited to register on Public Contracts Scotland, the national public sector procurement website, to view the framework documents. Submissions must be returned by 12 noon on Monday 27th October 2025.

The Council is also providing an information session for all operators and potential new entrants in to the market at 6.30pm on Tuesday 7th October in order to fully explain the documentation and how to make a submission. The session will be held in Room 16, Islesburgh Community Centre, Lerwick.

Moraig Lyall, Chair of the Council's Environment and Transport Committee and ZetTrans, said: "We're pleased to be able to publish this new framework for the next four years, representing the next step in the process of contracting for public bus and school transport services in Shetland from August 2026.

"We rely on local operators to deliver public, school and ASN services, and we're keen to work with them, and new entrants to the market, to deliver the best transport services possible for the people and communities who rely on them."

Details of the new multi-supplier Framework for the Provision of Passenger Transport Services can be found on the Public Contracts Scotland website.

Published: 26th September 2025