Agenda item

For Members to receive a presentation and update on progress from Transport for Wales on work being undertaken on a Wales National Bus Network Review and the North Wales Metro.

Reoprt by Iwan Prys Jones & presentation by Transport for Wales.

Presentation by Lee Robinson, TfW.

 

North Wales Metro

 

A presentation was shared with the Sub-group, explaining the national picture and then focusing on North Wales and the projects in progress.  The context of the North Wales Metro programme was explained and the Sub-group was guided through the proposed timetable and the zones in question.

 

The main objectives of the North Wales Metro were discussed, including:

 

-       A few of the current timetables needed to be amended as they were restricted

-       A number of sections had dated signage

-       On the whole, the line speed was low

-       That the current condition of the assets relating to the Metro needed to be evaluated

-       That some stations continued to be inaccessible

-       Railway crossings disrupted the ability to maintain the trains running quicker and more frequent.

 

The next steps were highlighted as follows:

 

-       Ongoing work with Network Rail in order to evaluate railway crossings and address the needs in the hope of reaching a permanent solution to the situation.

-       Improvements to come, e.g. in Shotton and Deeside in order to increase inclusion.

-       Understanding the use made of cars as a mode of transport when travelling between North Wales and cities such as Manchester. Look into the connection with HS2.

-       Look into places that could adapt the provision without needing a substantial change to the infrastructure, e.g. around Chester and Llandudno.

-       Look into extending the service in places such as Caernarfon and the Amlwch Line.

 

 

Regional Buses

 

A discussion was held on matters relating to regional buses, drawing attention to the main principles as follows:

 

-       Local authorities had agreed that the main objective was to increase use on the bus network.

-       Attention was drawn to a number of areas in North Wales where users did not have an alternative option and that is why high proportions of users could be seen.

-       The finding was to introduce the networks in a way that allows for better connectivity as the network was so complex.

-       Ticket contracts had been arranged to facilitate ticket purchases, to access user data and to improve efficiency.

-       Reference was made to projects across North Wales in areas such as Bangor, Prestatyn and Holyhead.

-       It was noted that work was being done with Local Authorities to identify potential Park and Ride sites, such as Bangor, Rhyl and Llandudno Junction, which would also have a positive impact on the National Park and reduce parking problems.

-       It was explained that a pilot scheme was in progress to restrict ticket prices

-       Traws Cymru bus company was looking at ways to allow integration with trains in order to facilitate travel.

 

 

The following comments were raised during the discussion:

 

 

-       The Chair requested more information regarding the likely timescale for the next steps.

-       One member expressed that work was needed on the North Wales Metro branding in order to promote it.

-       It was agreed that the timetabling service was very important when there was a high number of users, in order to retain confidence in the service

-       It was asked whether there were any plans to adapt the vision as the new transport minister undertook his post.

A member asked about finance and whether long-term finance had been confirmed in order to fund the projects that were underway.

-       It was noted that connections from the Bangor railway would improve the travel network for a number of residents, including facilitating the journey to the workplace or School/College.

-       This was reiterated to note for certain that it was not just a matter of satisfying the needs of visitors; the importance of satisfying local needs was emphasised.

-       An interest was expressed in collaborating with the National Park to monitor the transportation situation in Snowdonia. The importance that members of the Sub-board had input to discussions was emphasised.

-       Lee Robinson was thanked for the report, which highlighted how much work was happening within the transport fields.

 

 

 

In response to the above observations, the following was noted:-

 

-       That consistency with the marketing element could be ensured to highlight the concept of a North Wales Metro.

-       It was expressed that there was no intention to change the direction of the proposed work or the current theory after Ken Skates stood down as the minister for the Economy, Transport and North Wales

-       With regards to finance, it was noted that there was no definitive assurance to fund the projects in question; however, a five year plan in principle suggested that finance would be available.

-       Reference was made to the Labour Party's manifesto on Transport, particularly regarding improving transport in the North.

-       Active travel was very important and there was a need to look at ways to allow for access to stations and trains by bicycle or on foot.

 

It was suggested that another meeting was needed in the Summer before the next proposed meeting in the Autumn, in order to discuss the Sub-group's priorities.