Bus service changes due to shortage of drivers

A SHORTAGE of bus drivers has forced North Wales’ largest bus operator to amend its timetables.

The changes by Arriva Cymru, which came into effect at the weekend, are said to be only temporary but have caused difficulties for some bus users.

No explanation for the driver shortage has been offered by the German-owned company but it is known that some drivers have switched to driving heavy goods vehicles.

The changes have affected the depots at Bangor and Llandudno.

Since Sunday the Arriva service 4 and X4 from Bangor to Holyhead has been reduced to operate hourly from half hourly.

The number of buses on the key route between Bangor and Llandudno, service 5 and 5C, have already been reduced temporarily. From the same date service 13, Llandudno to Prestatyn, will be reduced to operate every 50 minutes instead of every 40 minutes.

Other services reduced from the Llandudno depot include services 25/26, to Tyn Y Coed or Eglwysbach and service 27 from Conwy to Old Colwyn.

Frequency on both 25 and 26 services will be reduced while service 27 will be reduced to operate every two hours.

Arriva will also no longer operate school ‘Dupe’ (duplicate) service 5S which serves Ysgol Aberconwy.

However, alternative provision will be provided by Conwy County Council.

Users have been quick to voice their disapproval of the changes on social media.

Paul Jones, writing on the Arriva Facebook page, said because there was no bus between 3.19pm and 5.30pm from Llangefni to Gwalchmai and he can’t get home from work.

Another bus user, Dave Jones, added: “Absolute joke that’s why I use trains more now and they’re cheaper. A weekly (ticket) from Llandudno Junction to Llandudno is £9.40 where as Arriva Buses Wales are charging £19. Granted you can go anywhere in that but I don’t need to atm.”

More details about the charges are available on the Arriva Bus website or from Traveline Cymru on 0800 4640000.