Transport for Wales’ latest TrawsCymru service will commence operation in February 2024, using new Yutong E12 electric buses. These will be the first electric buses on Gwynedd’s public transport network, and will operate the new T22 route between Caernarfon, Porthmadog and Blaenau Ffestiniog. The vehicles and charging facilities have been provided with financial support from the Welsh Government and will be operated by Llew Jones International.
Councillor Dafydd Meurig, Cyngor Gwynedd’s Environment Member, said: “It is excellent news that the first electric buses are being introduced on our public transport network here in Gwynedd. The new T22 service will offer more travel options along the Blaenau Ffestiniog to Porthmadog route and on to Caernarfon, with significant environmental benefits.
“This is the culmination of a lot of close collaboration between Gwynedd Council and Transport for Wales, with financial support from the Welsh Government as well, and is an example of what can be achieved with working together despite the difficult financial climate.”
Scheduled to begin in February, the T22 will offer an hourly service between Blaenau Ffestiniog and Porthmadog, extending every two hours to Porthmadog and Caernarfon, supplementing the existing TrawsCymru Aberystwyth-Bangor T2 between Porthmadog and Caernarfon.
TfW Programme Manager for TrawsCymru Gethin George commented: “We’re delighted to be working with Cyngor Gwynedd to introduce this additional route to the TrawsCymru network providing improved access to public transport and helping deliver our vision for better integration between bus and other modes of transport and encouraging people to leave their cars behind and take the bus whenever possible.”
Llew Jones International said it is extremely proud to have been awarded the contract to operate the route. “We are thrilled to be at the forefront of innovation and sustainability in the public transportation sector,” said Managing Director Steve Jones. “Being awarded the T22 TrawsCymru electric bus contract not only marks a significant achievement for our company but also underscores our dedication to providing eco-friendly and efficient transport solutions for the communities we serve.”
It is planned for one of the buses to be on display on Friday 9 February in Porthmadog.
