‘Stronger will’ needed to solve bus problems

A “STRONGER political will” is needed to solve the problems facing bus services in Wales and encourage more people to leave their cars at home, according to a new report from a National Assembly committee.

The Economy, Infrastructure and Skills Committee was told that buses are the “Cinderella service”, caught in a cycle which sees more cars creating more congestion, impacting timetables, raising costs and making people less likely to use them.

The chair of the committee, Conservative AM Russell George, said: “At its heart, this is an issue that requires stronger political will.

“Broadly, the powers, levers, and legislation are in place.

“What we need now is a Welsh Government action plan which pulls together what works, and encourages local authorities to adopt and adapt good practice.”

The report states that registered bus services in Wales declined by nearly half in the last decade, from 1,943 in March 2005 to 1,058 in March 2015.

The number of bus passenger journeys declined by around 19% between 2008 and 2015.

It adds that bus travel accounts for over 80% of public transport in Wales, and Bus Users Cymru describe bus services as a “vital lifeline” for those without a car, and in rural areas.

The committee recommends that as a matter of urgency the Welsh Government should produce an action plan to tackle the effect of congestion on buses.

It includes; how the Welsh Government will support local authorities on the matter, plans for a national awareness campaign to encourage bus use and a recognition of the scale and extent the impact of congestion has on buses, with a “firm commitment” to tackling the issue.

The committee heard from Cardiff Bus that its two biggest costs are fuel and labour, and that when traffic speeds reduce they need more paid hours and fuel to deliver the same service.

The Welsh Government welcomed the report and will consider the recommendations in detail before responding.

A Welsh Government spokesperson said: “The Economy and Infrastructure Secretary recognised in committee that congestion is a significant challenge.

“Congestion will be specifically discussed during workshops with our partners later this year.

“The Cabinet Secretary has been clear that our transport network needs to be sustainable and that is why pinch-point studies are designed to look at a range of solutions to congestion problems.”

The spokesman added that measures have already been put in place, including local authorities powers to tackle parking.