Coach style interiors, next stop audio announcements and free WiFi for passengers are just some of the benefits available on a new fleet of buses launched by the Economy and Transport Minister, Edwina Hart, in Gwbert, Cardigan.
The fleet of five new more fuel-efficient and environmentally-friendly Optare MetroCity single deck buses will serve passengers along the T5 route, which connects Aberystwyth with Haverfordwest, via Cardigan and Fishguard.
TrawsCymru is the Welsh Government funded long distance bus network for Wales comprising of a number of routes. The new buses are part of improved services being rolled out across the TrawsCymru network and this latest fleet takes the current total of new vehicles introduced across Wales to 15.
Mrs Hart said:
“The T5 service is an important part of our integrated transport network and this upgraded service will provide better connectivity for communities in Ceredigion and Pembrokeshire. The Welsh Government recognises the importance of bus services in Wales, particularly in rural areas, for providing access to jobs and services. These upgrades to the TrawsCymru network will improve accessibility, passenger comfort and access to the internet.
“We have listened to the findings of Dr Victoria Winkler’s review of the bus network in Wales and today’s launch is part of a wider package of measures to drive up standards in the service. I have also approved funding of up £10,000 so our Bus Policy Advisory Group can commission a study to look at how we can increase revenue and capital investment to improve bus services in Wales. I am committed to ensuring our public transport network continues to meet the changing needs and demands of our Welsh communities.”
Councillor Alun Williams, Ceredigion County Council Cabinet Member for Transport, Waste and Carbon Management:
“As well as their importance to our local communities, bus services in Ceredigion are geographically very important for linking Wales together and the new T5 service between Aberystwyth and Haverfordwest is a vital part of that. I’ve received nothing but good comments about the various improvements that have been introduced on the route, and I’m very pleased to see the resulting increased passenger numbers.”
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