Agenda item

1

Cllr Annwen Hughes - a question for Network Rail

"What is the latest regarding the installation of barriers at the Talwrn Bach level crossing?"

It was noted that the package of developments that included the Talwrn Bach crossing was one of the few to have been affected when the Carillion company folded. The situation had not changed since the Conference's previous meeting, and the work was programmed for after April 2019. Sam Hadley noted his sympathy with local residents' frustration, and that he would report on any progress made at the next meeting of the Conference.

2.1

Richard Williams, Porthmadog Town Councillor - a question for Transport for Wales

"Why is the information broadcast over the tannoy system at Porthmadog Station provided in English only?"

It was noted that tannoy announcements would be bilingual in future, in accordance with Transport for Wales policy.

2.2

"I was treated rudely by the 'Train Ticket Officer' when I made an enquiry as to the reason I was not allowed to use the Travel Card. (Why are Blaenau Ffestiniog and Conwy passengers allowed to use the card throughout the year?)" 

It was noted that the current Cambrian Coast Railway trains were too busy to allow free journeys. There was confidence that the arrival of trains with more seating would enable the provision of the same service in the future.

3.1

Porthmadog Town Council - Questions for Transport for Wales, Network Rail and the Committee

"Porthmadog Town Council would like your assurance that the Welsh Language is to be used in all aspects of service by the train operator on the Cambrian Coast Railway.

We wish to see everything bilingually, and to see place names pronounced/published correctly in Welsh."

It was noted that Transport for Wales policy meant that this was ongoing, and that there was a need to improve the provision as part of the new arrangements.

4.1

Cllr Owain Williams - Questions for Transport for Wales and Network Rail

"Is all Cambrian Railway literature, i.e. posters, information sheets etc., fully bilingual? If not, then when can this be achieved?"

It was noted that it was Transport for Wales' intention to collaborate with Claire Williams, Cambrian Railways Partnership Officer, and implement its policy of working bilingually. It was intended to start the work in the near future.

4.2

"Are all staff who engage with customers on the Cambrian Railway bilingual? If not, when can this be expected?"

It was noted that Network Rail had very little direct contact with the public. However, it was added that Network Rail would be working in close collaboration with Transport for Wales to ensure a bilingual public front.

5

R Goodhew, Shrewsbury to Aberystwyth Rail Passenger Association - a question for Transport for Wales

“Are there any plans to provide specific guidance for passengers who are travelling to and from the Cambrian Coast Line and the Cambrian Main Line west of Machynlleth in the next version of the printed pocket timetable (Dec 2018)? [any through carriages/change at Mach/Change at Dyfi Jn etc]"

It was noted that many of the arrangements inherited from Arriva would be reviewed as Transport for Wales began with its work programme, and that the suggestions would be taken into consideration.  It was added that the Cambrian Railway Partnership already produced a version of the timetable, summarized for passengers who were changing from one line to the other.

6.1

Liz Saville Roberts MP - Questions for Transport for Wales

"What plans do you have to improve the safety of passengers at night e.g. passengers waiting at remote train stations such as Dyfi Junction; and what is the timetable for the implementation of any improvements?"

It was noted that Dyfi Junction had historically been a problem due to its remote location. Transport for Wales' hope was that its work programme would lead to an improved situation in addition to improvements to the connections between trains on the Cambrian and Aberystwyth-Shrewsbury Railways.

6.2

"It came to my attention over the summer that young people had been playing on the railway line. How are you collaborating with the British Transport Police to educate children and young people of the dangers of playing on and near railway lines?"

It was noted that the prevention of trespassing on the railway line required continuous partnership work, which was addressed in the reports of the Transport Police and the Cambrian Railways Partnership Officer.

6.3

"Many constituents are getting in touch to pass on their experiences of using public transport, and report that train and bus timetables, for example, do not connect effectively, causing long waiting times. What are your plans to improve train connectivity between Aberystwyth and Meirionnydd, and what discussions have you had with regard to improving bus connectivity?"

It was noted that work was ongoing between the Railways, TrawsCymru and Gwynedd Council in order to co-ordinate timetables, but that the commercial nature of certain bus routes made this difficult. It was added that a request had been made for buses to wait for trains before leaving a connection point.

7

Cllr Louise Hughes - a question for Network Rail

"The local community has raised great concern regarding the lighting situation at Llwyngwril station, in addition to the state of a wall near the station" - wording needed

It was noted that Gwynedd Consultancy had been commissioned to inspect the wall and to suggest a solution. It was added that this was a lengthy process, but that a healthy dialogue had been held and that the work would be programmed once the development work had been completed and funding was available. Until this happened, it would be a process of risk management. In terms of the station lighting, it was noted that this was part of a wider scheme which was to include lighting the path to the station in order to improve safety in the area. This work was to be completed by April 2019. Sam Hadley noted that he would be willing to meet with the Community Council to discuss the members' concerns.