Yorkshire Buses: Shock as bus operator ceases operations amid fuel cost rises

Yorkshire Buses – based in Wakefield - had routes across West, South and North Yorkshire.

The company, which was founded in 2020, also supplied services for First, Arriva, Stagecoach and the WYCA.

The team of drivers, engineering and administration staff provided “vital local bus services that link the city’s main hospitals, universities, and schools”.

Schools covered included Woodkirk Academy and Bruntcliffe Academy, while other routes included the White Rose Shopping Centre and St James’s Hospital in Leeds.

However, on Tuesday Yorkshire Buses posted a lengthy statement on Facebook outlining reasons the company would cease operations at 8pm the same day.

The pair said it was with “a truly heavy heart” they shared the news.

The statement reads: “After much thought and consideration, the continued rise in costs which includes fuel and many other significant increases has made it no longer sustainable for us to continue operating. This has not been an easy decision, and it is one we have fought hard to avoid however with further cost increases forecast on the horizon the decision has had to be made sooner rather than later.

“From the very beginning, Yorkshire Buses has been about more than just transport. It has been about community, connection, and the people we have had the privilege to serve every single day.

“We want to take this moment to sincerely thank each and every one of you, our passengers, nurses, supporters, staff, and partners and the rest for your loyalty, kindness, and support over the years. Your encouragement has meant more to us than words can express.

“To our incredible team, past and present, thank you for your dedication and hard work. You are the heart of everything we have done.

“While this chapter is coming to a close, we will always be grateful for the journey we have shared together.

“Thank you for being part of our story.

“Pete and Steve x”