A new study has highlighted the opportunity to create a new express coach service in Wales as part of the existing TrawsCymru network of strategically important bus services. The report notes that TrawsCymru routes are almost exclusively used for short trips of under 1 hour, and frequent stopping patterns mean that journey times are not competitive with the car over longer distances, whilst current vehicles do not have facilities that passengers require over longer distances, such as toilets, reclining seats and luggage storage.
As part of the study into bus connectivity, it has been recommended that a new express coach service should be established between Bangor and Carmarthen, cutting around 90 minutes from current end-to-end bus or rail journey time. It is suggested that the service should aim to replicate a rail level of service to enhance connectivity within Transport for Wales’ multi-modal, integrated transport system. Whilst public transport demand on the corridor is currently low, the review suggests that there
is scope to enhance frequency to correspond with increased public transport mode share. Acknowledging the ‘challenging funding context’ the proposed solution is said to be very low cost by comparison with alternative rail infrastructure, and could use a high-quality electric coach.
A recommendation is made for a frequency of eight coaches per day to maximise opportunities for onward travel via rail or bus connections. Meanwhile, integrated ticketing and lower fares were introduced on the TrawsCymru T6 route and local services 62 and 64 around Ystradgynlais from 2 February, including new through fares from local bus services 62 and 64 onto the T6, providing passengers with easier travel options to destinations including Brecon, Neath and Swansea.
Ian Robinson, development lead for fares, ticketing, and modelling (bus) at Transport for Wales, said: “This new ticketing system is designed to provide greater flexibility and make travel simpler for both local and longer-distance commuters. By integrating routes and lowering fares, TrawsCymru, along with local services 62 and 64, is continuing its commitment to sustainable, affordable, and accessible transport in South Wales.”
