Last week James Evans led a debate in the Senedd pushing for improvements to rural transport across Wales.
The debate received support across the chamber, with members from Plaid Cymru, the Welsh Conservatives and Welsh Labour all discussing what needs to be done to improve rural transport for the people of Wales.
This debate called on the Welsh Government to provide sustainable long-term funding for local authorities to enhance rural bus services; ensure rural councils receive a fair share of future investment for public transport and active travel schemes; guarantee the National Bus Strategy for Wales considers the unique challenges of public transport in rural Wales and prioritise investing in zero-emissions public transport vehicles in rural areas.
James Evans MS said:
“Rural transport in Wales is one of my main areas of concern as the Senedd Member for Brecon and Radnorshire.
I am regularly inundated by concerned constituents who are worried about the quality of services being provided across Wales.
The debate aimed to foster cross party support for a more long term approach to funding local public transport systems going forward, as well as exploring the current problems and what can be done to improve these services.
I hope the Welsh Government take on board some of the issues discussed in this debate and look to improve the situation for those using rural public transport going forward”
Natasha Asghar, Shadow Transport Minister said:
“Wales needs a strategy for rural public transport.
A Rural Public Transport Strategy would start from the basis that all rural areas should have a public transport service that provides access to employment, education, health services, shopping and recreation.
Based on this principle there is an opportunity to rethink the provision of rural bus services, to recognise its importance and provide all rural dwellers with the opportunity to access services.
The Welsh Government must recognise the importance of rural bus services and provide the framework and funding necessary for their support.”
