Plaid Cymru MS praises Rainbow Coalition for reinstating bus services

Neath Port Talbot Council have been able to secure 42 bus contracts across the county borough, including a number of services that had previously been cut or reduced.

The reinstated Neath Port Talbot bus network include:

• Service X6 (Morning) Ystradgynlais to Swansea Bus Station
• Service 256 (Morning) Neath Victoria Gardens to Pontardawe
• Service 256 (Evening) Neath Victoria Gardens to Pontardawe
• Service 38 (Sunday) Swansea Bus Station to Neath Victoria Gardens
• Service 81 (Hourly) Port Talbot Bus Station to Brynbryddan
• Service 82 (Hourly) Port Talbot Bus Station to Sandfields Estate (Golden Avenue)

I want to thank the Councillors and all members of the Rainbow Coalition and Council officers who have managed to safeguard a large number of services despite cuts in funding.

This is still a challenging time for bus services across the country.

One year ago this month, it was announced that the end the Bus Emergency Scheme would come to an end, despite increasing costs for bus operators and reduced revenue because of the slow post-pandemic recovery in passenger numbers. I have spent much of this last year challenging the government on their decision, and have made the case for increased investment in what I consider to be essential community services.

Sioned Williams MS said

"I'm glad to see the Rainbow Coalition are acting today to protect services that are vital for the health, wealth and wellbeing of our communities.

"I'd also like to thank the many constituents who have written to me, to their councillors, to bus companies and to Welsh Government. You've written letters, signed petitions and shared how cuts have affected you. Your efforts have been essential in making bus services a priority, and you deserve credit for making this possible!"

For more information visit the Neath Port Talbot Council website