From September, the T4 bus route between Newtown and Cardiff will undergo major changes, with Celtic Travel taking over part of the service. Despite assurances from Transport for Wales (TfW) that the changes would "enhance" the service, it now appears that the direct link between Newtown and the Welsh capital is being scrapped, with the T4 service terminating at Merthyr bus station.
Currently, passengers can travel between Newtown and Cardiff on a single T4 bus with no changes. Under the new arrangement, Celtic Travel will operate the Newtown-to-Merthyr section only. Passengers will need to transfer to the X4 service for travel south of Merthyr, including to Pontypridd and Cardiff. This X4 route will take significantly longer due to additional stops in Treforest and the Treforest Industrial Estate.
Further cuts to the T4 service include the reduction in the timetable and removal of stops at Bronllys and Talgarth.
James Evans MS is due to meet with TFW officials on 21st August where he plans to discuss these concerns.
James Evans, MS for Brecon & Radnorshire, said:
“Transport for Wales’ promises of an ‘enhanced’ service are a sham. Instead we are seeing timetables reduced, direct buses withdrawn and significantly longer travel times to reach Cardiff. These contractual changes are not progress – this is a step backwards for the residents of Brecon & Radnorshire.
“We don’t have a final timetable published as yet – but I fear what further changes they are planning next for the Brecon to Hereford route, and Brecon to Abergavenny route.
“Our bus services are a lifeline in this area, whether for travelling for work or social, and I cannot believe TfW think these changes are an “enhancement” – it is the very opposite of that!”
