March 31 2022
CPT Cymru has responded to the Welsh Government’s buses white paper.
“Bus operators have worked closely with Welsh Government during the pandemic, and look forward to continuing this approach to deliver the shared ambition of more frequent and reliable bus services.
“Regardless of the regulatory model, close working between all partners is crucial to improving Wales’ bus services. Ensuring that operators expertise in running services, their strong track record for innovation and existing strong relationships with passengers are fully utilised will be vital.
“The additional costs of a franchise model would be around £61m per year with no guarantees that improvements in bus services will be delivered any more quickly than through local authorities and operators working in partnership to improve services.
“To avoid a period of uncertainty that delays investment in improvements in services for passengers we now need to see a clear timetable and a solid financial commitment to fund the changes Welsh Government propose.”