Transport for London (TfL) has unveiled 'Buses for London', a publicly owned bus company for the capital, as well as plans for its first route and operational base.

Route 6 will become the first service it operates from late next year, while Park Royal Depot will be its first operational site, initially supporting around 100 zero-emission buses.

TfL said it is working in partnership with the Old Oak and Park Royal Development Corporation (OPDC) to develop the site, which is being leased until 2033.

Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, said: 'This is an opportunity to really reimagine our bus network so that it provides better value for money, supports our climate goals, makes our roads safer, and overall just works better for passengers and drivers alike.'

The Old Oak depot site will be released for redevelopment from 2033 as a key part of the Old Oak masterplan, helping to unlock homes and employment space.

TfL currently contracts bus services to a range of privately-owned operators across the capital's almost 700 bus routes.

The capital's transport authority has also published updated Interchange Best Practice Guidelines, providing guidance to help boroughs and other partners deliver high-quality transport interchanges.

The revised guidance gives 'a renewed focus on inclusivity, safety, accessibility' and 'reinforces the need for transport facilities to be integrated with surrounding streets and public spaces'.

It incorporates principles from TfL's Station Public Realm Design Guidance, and aligns these with a range of strategic policies, including the London Plan, the Mayor's Transport Strategy and the Mayor's Violence Against Women and Girls Strategy.

Joseph Uzoka, Growth Interchange Programme Manager at TfL, said: Interchanges around Tube, rail and bus stations are a critical part of London's transport network, helping people move between different modes of transport safely and efficiently. It's therefore vital that we ensure they are designed to meet the latest needs for our customers, while also creating attractive and welcoming environments for all.'

For more information and to view a copy of the guide visit: Interchange - Transport for London