Passenger champion, Bus Users UK, has given a cautiously optimistic response to the Bus Services (Wales) Bill as it moves a step closer to becoming law.
Commenting on the news that the Bill has been passed by the Senedd, Barclay Davies, Bus Users UK Director for Wales said:
“For so many people in Wales, the bus is a lifeline. This Bill has the potential to significantly improve services across the country, putting passengers and communities at the heart of planning and decision making.
“Buses account for 75% of all journeys made by public transport in Wales, so it is vital that sufficient funding is made available to meet the needs and aspirations of passengers. We have seen significant investment in our rail services; we now have a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to revolutionise bus services and create a reliable, accessible, sustainable and comprehensive transport network for all passengers.”
Bus Users UK Chief Executive, Lydia Horbury said:
“This is an important and potentially transformative moment. The passage of the Bus Services (Wales) Bill marks a crucial opportunity to reshape bus services around people’s needs rather than purely commercial considerations.
“For many communities, especially in rural or currently underserved areas, the commitment to one network, one timetable, one ticket offers real promise of joined-up, accessible and affordable transport. However, the ultimate success of this reform will depend entirely on how it is rolled out.
“The transition will require careful planning, sustained investment and strong collaboration between public authorities, local councils, operators and communities to ensure reliability, coverage, accessibility and value for passengers. Bus Users UK stands ready to engage constructively in that process, to press for the best outcomes for passengers, and to help ensure the ambitions of the Bill result in real improvements for everyday bus users.”
Read the announcement in full: