The TrawsCymru network has seen a significant increase in passengers across the network since the Welsh Government launched its free weekend bus travel pilot in July, figures have shown.
The Welsh Government-funded pilot applies to all buses on the extensive TrawsCymru network and will continue every weekend until at least May 2018. When compared with data from the previous year, increases of well over 100% have been recorded across the network, with the T4 service between Newtown and Cardiff currently boasting the greatest increase.
The highest increases in total daily bus passenger numbers (including child and concessions) were recorded on the following days and services:
1. T4: Newtown – Cardiff. Saturday, August 26 2017: 1,971 bus passengers used the service compared with 461 on Saturday, August 27 2016 – an increase of 328%.
2. T5: Aberystwyth – Haverfordwest. Sunday, July 9 2017: 555 bus passengers used the service compared with 146 on Sunday, July 10 2016 – an increase of 280%.
3. T5: Aberystwyth – Haverfordwest. Sunday, August 20 2017: 389 bus passengers used the service compared with 126 on Sunday, August 21 2016 – an increase of 209%.
4. T1: Aberystwyth – Carmarthen. Sunday, August 13 2017: 437 bus passengers used the service compared with 169 on Sunday, August 14 2016 – an increase of 159%.
5. T4: Newtown – Cardiff. Saturday, August 12 2017: 2,130 bus passengers used the service compared with 874 on Saturday, August 13 2016 – an increase of 144%.
Welcoming the news, Economy and Infrastructure Secretary, Ken Skates, said: “The TrawsCymru network covers large areas of Wales, some of which would otherwise be inaccessible by public transport and it’s extremely encouraging to see this pilot boosting summer passenger numbers.
“From Bangor to Cardiff, Fishguard to Wrexham, this scheme provides a perfect opportunity for people from across Wales and beyond to jump on a bus and spend their weekends enjoying the diverse beauty of Wales and I am delighted it has already proved so popular.
“For those yet to take advantage of the pilot, there’s still time.”
