Commitment to Building a More Effective Network of Bus Services for Wales
Economy Secretary, Ken Skates has reiterated his commitment to building a more effective network of bus services for Wales.
He has also welcomed the UK Department for Transport’s proposed amendment to the Bus Services Bill, which is designed to ensure better on board information for disabled people, something the Welsh Government has supported since 2013.
Speaking to Assembly Members, Ken Skates said:
“Local scheduled bus services are, and will continue to be, the foundation of our public transport system allowing people across Wales to get to work, to hospital appointments, to education and to leisure activities.
“We are committed to delivering a more effective network of buses and to supporting the bus industry in the short term through what are difficult times.
“Last month, following the recent loss of three local bus companies serving our rural communities, I announced a five point plan to support the bus industry in Wales. .
“This includes offering all bus companies in Wales dedicated professional assistance through Business Wales and Finance Wales, and calling on local authorities to make every effort to protect funding for bus services in the current challenging economic climate.
“I also want us to work with local authorities to identify vulnerable bus services at the earliest possible opportunity so we can quickly respond to any planned withdrawal. With this in mind I have made funding available to provide bus coordinator posts for both north and south Wales in order to bring together work on policy and investment and develop the Statutory Bus Quality Partnership model.
“I will also be holding a bus summit early next year to bring together local authorities, bus operators, groups representing passengers and disabled people, the Community Transport Association and others to consider how best financially viable and sustainable bus services can be delivered.
“I am aware, for example, that smaller bus operators in some of our rural communities have real issues recruiting drivers and maintenance staff and acquiring new vehicles and depot facilities, and these are issues I am keen to explore at the summit.”