Agenda item

To receive an oral report from Transport For Wales representative

Lowri Joyce, Transport for Wales, was welcomed to the meeting to present an update on the activities of Transport for Wales.

Since the relaxation of the covid 19 restrictions over the summer, in September 2021 a general increase had been seen of 8.5% in service use that was by now approximately 85% of the 'normal pre-covid' use.  It was added that more services had re-opened between south and north Wales and it was proposed to add more in March 2022.  It was noted that it was difficult to compare the situation with the pre-pandemic period as several changes had been implemented.  It was also noted that the public continued to be concerned about travelling on public transport, however, Transport for Wales sought to ensure that they kept people safe.

In response to all the changes it was reported that workshops were being conducted to seek feedback and views on the service and there was a questionnaire to be circulated.

LJ noted that she had been appointed as Head of Engagement (temporary) with Transport for Wales -  In the meantime, LJ would inform LHE regarding who will report on Transport for Wales services to the committee.

During the ensuing discussion, the following observations were noted:

·         Need to ensure that train and bus connections were effective.  It appeared that there was a lack of awareness by bus drivers of train time connections

·         Assurance was needed that the stations closed during the pandemic would re-open. 

·         There were local concerns that train coaches were overcrowded - two coaches were insufficient

·         There were concerns that bus drivers, who ensured service continuation as a result of the renovation work to Barmouth viaduct, were not local drivers.   They did not know the area and did not stop in prominent stops to pick up travellers. 

·         Posters were required at Llandanwg station to highlight taxi services -  LJ to check this with David Crunkhorn

·         Buses serving Talwrn Bach Station causing congestion

In response to a question regarding safe routes to railway stations and a request by Councillor Gwynfor Owen (Harlech/Talsarnau Member) for the Committee to support him in a request for the various authorities to provide a safe walking/cycling path to Tŷ Gwyn station from Ynys and Glan y Wern, LJ noted that Transport for Wales would be supportive of the application and highlighted that a strategy was being drafted on safe routes matters.  It was added that the application would be in keeping with this strategy.

In response to a comment regarding the lack of toilets on the new trains and a reduction in the number of seats, it was noted that it had to be ensured that every element was considered such as sufficient space for prams, wheelchairs, bags, bicycles and the number of toilets. 

It was suggested that it would be useful for Members to see a model of the new coaches prior to their implementation on the railway - LJ to share details. 

Although the investment into Barmouth Viaduct was to be welcomed, it was accepted that problems had arisen - LJ was thanked for resolving the concerns of residents regarding the bus service to Barmouth and the problems with the journeys of schoolchildren that had been resolved following discussions with the Education Department.

Lowri Joyce was thanked for the update and best wishes were extended to her in her new post.