AM slams Corwen to Betws-y-Coed bus service cuts

Dec 24 2008 by Samantha Castle, North Wales Weekly News

CRITICAL bus services in the Conwy Valley could face serious cuts.

Clwyd West AM Darren Millar says that services along the A5 between Corwen and Betws-y-Coed have already been reduced as a result of Assembly grant cuts earlier this year, and officers at Conwy County Council have indicated that plans to end the grant support completely for the route from next year will lead to the service being mothballed.

“This decision will have very serious consequences for public transport in my constituency,” said Mr Millar.

“There is precious little bus service along rural parts of the A5 as it is and I have already been inundated by concerned residents in the Cerrigydrudion and wider Hiraethog area following cuts earlier in the year.

“The Assembly regularly talks of the need to encourage people out of their cars and onto public transport in a bid to save the environment, yet we are seeing little evidence that they are committed to this agenda.

“Many of my constituents could face real difficulties getting to and from work, hospital appointments or to the shops if these services are slashed. It simply isn’t good enough.”

Taith, the North Wales Regional Transport Consortium, had identified the bus route as a priority in its new regional transport strategy which was due to be implemented from April 2009, and it was hoped further funding would be available from this time.

However, the Assembly has now announced a six month extension to the deadline for submission of the plans which will lead to a delay in their implementation, including any potential grants to support bus services, until 2010.

“Public transport is a lifeline to those who do not have access to an alternative. The Assembly must put its money where its mouth is and secure the long-term viability of these crucial bus services,” added Mr Millar.