Call for Enhanced Investment in North Wales Bus Services
In a recent move that could impact travelers and residents alike, a North Wales Member of the Senedd (MS) has made a passionate call for increased investment in the region's bus services. Plaid Cymru’s Llŷr Gruffydd addressed the Welsh Government minister, urging for more funding to improve the bus network in North Wales.
The push for investment comes in light of the £1 billion plus allocated to the South Wales Metro project, which aims to significantly upgrade services in that region. Gruffydd highlighted the stark contrast, describing the North Wales metro plan as an "ambiguous candy floss concoction" that merely links existing rail and bus services without substantial improvements.
Public transport passenger numbers have yet to return to their pre-pandemic levels, leading to concerns about the viability of bus services in North Wales. Gruffydd emphasized the need for a fair distribution of resources, ensuring that North Wales receives adequate funding to support its public transport infrastructure.
During a session in the Senedd, Gruffydd asked Rebecca Evans, the Cabinet Secretary for Finance, about discussions regarding additional funding for bus franchising in North Wales. Evans responded by stating that decisions about funding would be addressed during the budget-setting process, acknowledging the challenging fiscal outlook.
For many in North Wales, the significant investment in the South Wales Metro is a source of envy. Gruffydd pointed out that bus services have long been neglected, even before the pandemic, and stressed the importance of properly funding the proposed bus franchising legislation to make it effective.
As the call for investment continues, travelers and residents in North Wales remain hopeful for improved and more reliable bus services. Gruffydd’s advocacy aims to ensure that North Wales gets its fair share of funding, enabling better connectivity and accessibility for all.
