Montgomeryshire MS, Russell George MS expressed his concerns over proposed changes to local bus services
During a recent visit to Welshpool (24/1/25) the First Minister of Wales, Eluned Morgan MS said that she wants to transform public bus services across Powys and ensure greater provision for rural areas. The statement was welcomed by Russell George MS, however, the Senedd member raised concerns about proposed changes to bus services in Powys that could conflict with her vision.
Powys County Council is currently consulting on proposals that would lead to changes to local bus services. The council have said that they are seeking the views of current and future bus users on a new proposed bus timetable, to create a revised service for Powys residents. However, residents have raised concerns that proposed changes would lead to a reduction in service in some areas, and some communities will be negatively impacted.
Of particular concern is the potential discontinuation of the X75 service, which connects Llanidloes to Shrewsbury and allows passengers to join the service in Newtown, Abermule, Berriew, and Welshpool.
Mr George has said his constituents rely on bus routes to access medical appointments in Shropshire, among other essential services. Additionally, some residents could face wait times of up to two hours in Welshpool before continuing their journeys under proposed changes.
Mr George challenged the First Minister this week (28/01/2025) on Powys County Councils current consultation on proposals that could see a reduction in bus services. Mr George asked Eluned Morgan MS if her ambition to bring more bus provision to rural areas contradicts with Powys County Councils proposals.
In response to these concerns, the First Minister pointed to the forthcoming introduction of the Welsh Government’s bus Bill, which she said will grant local authorities greater control over bus routes to better address local needs. She highlighted that guidance has already been provided to local authorities and corporate joint committees.
Commenting, Montgomeryshire MS, Russell George said:
“When the First Minister visited Welshpool last week, she spoke of her commitment to transform public transport in Powys and providing more bus services in rural areas. However, this must align with the reality on the ground. Residents have been contacting me following concerns that some services may no longer continue. Many people depend on services like the X75 service between Llanidloes and Shrewsbury, and services between Oswestry and Welshpool, to attend medical appointments and travel to work.
The proposed changes risk leaving some communities underserved. I strongly urge Powys County Council to review the Welsh Government’s guidance and ensure local transport services meets the needs of those who depend on them the most.
I am yet to be convinced that the Welsh Government’s upcoming bus Bill will create a more integrated and responsive transport network across Powys. People across Powys will be watching closely to see how these proposals evolve and whether they align with the ambition that the First Minister outlined during her recent visit.
I hope that the Council are conducting a genuine consultation that listens to the views of all communities, and not just a tick box exercise that will end with the council moving forward without taking concerns raised on board.’’
The closing date to contribute to the consolation ends on13 February 2025. Residents can do this by visiting: https://www.haveyoursaypowys.wales/powys-local-bus-network-consultation.