Plaid MS voices serious concerns over bus funding withdrawal

Sioned Williams, Member of Senedd for South Wales West has voiced her serious concerns over the uncertain future of the Bus Emergency Scheme (BES) and the impact that would have on residents of Neath Port Talbot and communities throughout the South Wales West region.

The scheme was one of the measures put in place by the Welsh Government to safeguard bus service operators through the pandemic. It was expected that as passenger numbers recovered to pre-pandemic levels and that the scheme would no longer be needed. Passenger numbers have not returned to previous levels, leaving bus operators reliant on the scheme to maintain services.

The scheme was expected to come to an end in March, but the Deputy Minister for Climate Change recently announced an extension but only for three months.

Sioned Williams said:

“While I am pleased that Welsh Government has announced an extension to the Bus Emergency Scheme, I have serious concerns about the impact this catastrophic cut in support will have on bus services in Neath Port Talbot and across the South Wales West region.

“I have recently received correspondence from local authorities, bus companies and public transport users who share my concerns and are demanding that the Welsh Government takes immediate action to safeguard these vital networks. There are warnings that this withdrawal of support could decimate services.

“Buses are essential services. They are essential for people getting to and from work, leisure and other public services. They are an essential part of our ambitions for reducing carbon emissions, tackling loneliness and giving more people access to jobs and opportunities. Building a comprehensive, sustainable network of frequent, reliable and affordable buses requires a plan and proper funding in place. The Welsh Government is failing to deliver either.”