Poor transport links blamed for businesses closing down

POOR transport links in Ebbw Vale and the surrounding areas are being blamed for business closures and overcrowding at schools.

Residents of Ebbw Vale attended a panel discussion at the Ebbw Vale Institute to hear more about Transport for Wales (TfW) and the Valleys Taskforce’s ambitions.

Concerns were raised about the lack of buses going in and out of the town and the impact it is having on residents.

Steve Roberts, who owns Cwmglo cafe and shop with his wife, said that bus service cuts from Stagecoach have led to a 50% decrease in footfall.

He said: “I am the chairman of the Ebbw Vale business community and at the last meeting it was indicated that at least six of the businesses would fold after Christmas and the New Year, the footfall has been hit so dramatically.”

The chief operating officer for TfW Andy Thomas said that he understood the challenges and it required everyone working together from the Welsh Government to community transport.

A Welsh Government spokesman said: “We know that affordable and reliable public transport is one of the top priorities for communities in the Valleys. This is something that has come through very strongly in the work Transport for Wales has been doing through the Valleys Taskforce and the roadshow events they have held recently.

“Following the final engagement event, it will be looking at ideas for how we can make the best of the major investments being made by the Welsh Government over the next few years - including through Metro - to integrate public transport more effectively across the Valleys and improve access to jobs, education and vital services.”

Blaenau Gwent council has been approached for a comment.