Residents step up pressure for a local Bus Service

A 250 signature petition and letter was recently presented by Llanelli Town Councillor, Sean Rees with residents from the Machynys, The Links and North Dock areas at the ‘Bus Users Cymru – Your Bus Matters consultation event at the Selwyn Samuel Centre.

The petition was submitted to representatives from Carmarthenshire County Council and First Cymru.

A case was put forward for consideration to be given to the provision of a local bus service to serve the residents of Machynys, The Links and North Dock areas.

Campaigners argue that such a service would lead to increased opportunities to access work, shopping, medical appointments, educational establishments and leisure facilities.

During the discussions, it was noted that around 4 years ago, the Welsh Government cut the grant used for bus services and this has affected provision within the County.

Councillor Rees said: 

“We will continue to campaign for such a service with the creation of bus bays on the main road next to both the Machynys and The Links sites as well as exploring the feasibility of a service as part of the regeneration of the North Dock area.

“The developers of the proposed new Wellness Centre are now in discussions with First Cymru which could hopefully form the basis for greater provision of public transport within our area. All residents are asking for here is to have parity with other areas within the locality. 

“Whilst car ownership has increased, transport investment in Wales has lagged behind other public sector investment mainly as a result of the continued underfunding of our public services. We have messaged ‘Campaign for Better Transport’, an independent charity which empowers people to promote the need for sustainable transport. Their vision is the same as ours, co-ordinated, integrated services with good connections and a reliability in delivery.”

Machynys Resident David Rees is backing the campaign, he said:

“I fully support Sean with his efforts and thank him for raising this issue. Having moved to the Machynys area, we have been looking for a bus stop into Llanelli and there really aren’t any! Yet we have lots of houses in Machynys and NO public transport.”

At the meeting, it was stated that recent funding made available would be allocated specifically for the purpose of upgrading bus shelters.

Cllr Rees requested again for the bus shelters on Marine St in Seaside and Embankment Road/New Street in Morfa to be upgraded from their current inadequate condition. Officers present responded that these shelters would now be put on top of the priority list and should hopefully see an improvement shortly.