Bus Users has given a cautious welcome to the announcement of additional funding for bus operators in Wales.
As the rules on lockdown are eased, operators across the country will have to balance the requirements of social distancing with growing demand for services as schools re-open and people return to work.
Funding will come from the Bus Emergency Scheme (BES) and, according to the announcement made by Deputy Minister Lee Waters MS: “As well as addressing emergency short term needs, the agreement underpinning the BES is intended to signal the beginning of a lasting partnership between operators and public bodies to enable a reshaping of Wales’ bus network.”
While the funding is welcome, Bus Users is concerned over the lack of detail as to what the partnership will involve.
Barclay Davies, Director for Bus Users in Wales, said: “We are pleased that Welsh Government has recognised the key role the bus industry has to play in the social and economic recovery of our country. Continued support from Welsh Government will be vital in ensuring this can happen.
“We are keen to see the detail of these funding arrangements and the partnership mentioned by Deputy Minister Lee Waters MS, and will be playing our part in ensuring future services meet the needs of passengers.”
The full statement from Welsh Government can be read here https://gov.wales/written-statement-covid-19-bus-emergency-scheme
