Powys County Council plans to invest £3.8 million to enhance public transport services for sustainability
Powys: The council is planning to invest £3.8 million in public transport. This money aims to support a sustainable vision for the area.
During a recent meeting, Lib Dem councillor Raiff Devlin asked about the funding. Cllr Jackie Charlton explained that this amount is set aside for necessary investments.
She mentioned that the plans for sustainable Powys include improving public transport. They believe this investment will help deliver better services.
John Forsey, head of transport, shared that the goal is to enhance links between five key towns: Brecon, Llandrindod Wells, Newtown, Welshpool, and Ystradgynlais.
He noted that the £3.8 million is the estimated cost for these improvements. The council is also seeking grant funding from Transport for Wales and the Welsh Government.
Cllr Devlin raised concerns about the budget. He worried that if the funding isn’t granted, it would add pressure to the revenue budget.
Matt Perry, chief officer for Place, mentioned that part of the funding would come from a Welsh Government bus network grant worth £1.7 million.
He also said they are exploring other investment opportunities, including collaboration with Ceredigion Council on a Mid Wales transport project.
Earlier this month, the Welsh Government announced plans to test new proposals in Mid Wales as part of their Bus Reform Bill.
During the meeting, the committee discussed recommendations for the proposals. These will be included in documents for a full council vote on February 20.
Cllr Devlin expressed his concerns again about the bus route funding. He wanted clarity on how grant funding would align with the council’s budget.
He feared that long-term contracts with bus companies could burden the council if government funding stops.
Cllr Gary Mitchell, the committee vice-chairman, echoed these concerns. He emphasized the need for sustainable funding to maintain rural bus services.
