5 REGIONAL BUS UPDATES PDF 75 KB
Emlyn Jones to update members on
the current situation regarding Public Service Vehicle Accessibility
Regulations (PSVAR) and free concessionary travel renewal.
Additional documents:
Decision:
Having considered
the current situation, it was resolved to send a letter to Welsh Government and
the UK Government's Department for Transport on behalf of the Sub-Board to note
the problems that could arise as a result of the Public Services Vehicle
Accessibility Regulations.
Minutes:
The report was submitted by Peter Daniels.
DECISION
Having considered the current situation, it was
resolved to send a letter to Welsh Government and the UK Government's
Department for Transport on behalf of the Sub-Board to note the problems that
could arise as a result of the Public Services Vehicle Accessibility
Regulations.
DISCUSSION
The report was submitted, noting that there were two
main aspects for discussion.
The Public Services Vehicle Accessibility Regulations
were discussed, noting that local authorities had recently received a letter
explaining the process of applying for an extension to the two-year process if
specific criteria were met. It was noted that the main reason for the exception
was access for disabled people. Attention was drawn to the concern that the
exception was only relevant if more than 20% of bus seats were unsold. It was
expressed that Welsh Government needed to be lobbied to reduce this reduction.
It was noted that there were concerns about the cooling-off period and the
investment required to secure buses that reached the standard, and it was asked
about the implications of this on businesses.
In terms of the second aspect, Concessionary Travel
Passes Free Renewals, it was noted that the numbers remained low across Wales.
It was expressed that Transport for Wales had been raising awareness of the
matter, and perhaps this would boost the numbers. It was added that January
would be a month where it would be possible to use both passes; however, this
would consequently involve a lot of work for the bus companies.
Observations arising from the discussion
¾
It was expressed that
although it was positive that a two-year extension would be given, it would be
better for regulations to come into force for schools at the beginning of the
school year, rather than in January.
¾
It was noted that the bus
regulations would force companies to withdraw from agreements as their business
models were based on these agreements.
¾
With regard to vehicles
to schools' regulations, it was expressed that each authority was different
because in some authorities, such as Wrexham, the schools contracted with
companies directly. It was emphasised that there was a need to be aware of the
impacts on schools, and particular attention was drawn to buses for activities
such as swimming lessons.
¾
With regard to free
renewals of concessionary travel passes, it was noted that there was a need to
ensure that those who did not use the passes were aware of the changes.