Councillors concerns at possible cuts to bus services

Leading Carmarthenshire councillors have spoken of their concern at potential cuts to bus services.

First Cymru has informed them that a Government cut in grant funding streams could lead to increased fares and a reduction in service, from as soon as this April.

Chair of the Environment Scrutiny Committee Cllr Jim Jones said: “This is very disturbing news. Many people are reliant on bus travel, in both rural and urban parts of Carmarthenshire.

“For many, it is the only way they can travel around and access vital services such as GP surgeries, hospitals, or even just shopping or visiting friends. We appreciate that First Cymru is a commercial operator and is dependent upon grants to subsidise some of the routes, however we are extremely concerned at the adverse effect this could have on our communities. We will be keeping a very close eye on this situation.”