Landmark legislation to reform the way local bus services are
planned and delivered in Wales has today received Royal Assent,
becoming law.
The Bus Services (Wales) Bill was officially sealed by First
Minister, , at a ceremony in Cardiff
today (Monday 2 February) putting Wales at the forefront of
improving bus services in the UK.
This marks the start of the process to transform local bus
services across Wales putting passengers first and giving the
public sector a stronger role in shaping networks across rural
and urban areas.
In the coming weeks and months, the Welsh Government and
Transport for Wales will continue to work closely with local
authorities, Corporate Joint Committees, bus operators, unions,
and the public, to use local knowledge to design and plan
services that puts the voice of the passenger at the heart of
their local bus network.
First Minister, said:
“This is a historic day for public transport in Wales – it sends
out a clear message that we are committed to improving the bus
system and delivering better, more reliable services for the
people of Wales.
“Buses are lifelines for many communities across Wales connecting
people to jobs, health services, education and friends, and I'm
excited to see the improvements that are coming.”
Cabinet Secretary for Transport and North Wales, , added:
“Today marks a major milestone for bus services in Wales.
“It's the beginning of a new era that will bring some new and
exciting changes for people across Wales.
“These changes won't be seen overnight, it's going to take time,
but we are working closely with the industry and local
authorities to plan and deliver bus services to meet the needs of
passengers today and for generations to come.”
The roll out is intended to begin in Southwest Wales in 2027,
before North Wales in 2028, Southeast Wales in 2029 and Mid Wales
in 2030.
