Strathclyde Partnership for Transport (SPT) was formed by bringing together Strathclyde Passenger Transport Authority and Executive and the WESTRANS voluntary partnership. The new SPT was established by the Transport (Scotland) Act 2005 which created Scotland’s seven Regional Transport Partnerships (RTPs). SPT retains many of the transport powers and functions which were previously exercised by Strathclyde Passenger Transport Authority/Executive.

SPT’s role now involves planning and delivering transport solutions for all modes of transport across the region, in conjunction with its member Councils and industry partners. SPT is at the centre of the region's transport planning; analysing all travel needs and developing the transport system for now and the future. All aspects of transport have to be integrated - road, rail, freight, ferry, cycling and walking.

SPT has direct operational responsibilities, such as running the Subway, supporting - and in some cases running - local bus services, and managing integrated ticketing. While the management of the franchise for the Strathclyde rail network has transferred to Transport Scotland, SPT continues to have a role in promoting and developing rail projects to meet the region’s needs, such as the Glasgow Airport Rail Link. Under the Transport Scotland Act, SPT has the responsibility on behalf of its member councils to consult with private bus operators on the registration of bus services and the provision of passenger information.

The Partnership Board comprises of 27 members representing the 12 constituent unitary authorities in the West of Scotland plus other interested parties. Of the 27 members, 20 are nominated from Councils and seven are public appointments.