New bus consultation launched

Residents of Newtown and the wider Powys area are being invited to help shape the future of the county’s bus network, as Powys County Council launches a six-week online consultation on proposed changes to local bus timetables.

This consultation builds on an earlier engagement exercise and a series of public events held across the county, which sought feedback on the existing bus network and users' priorities. Insights from these discussions, combined with input from bus providers and other stakeholders, have informed the development of revised timetables.

The council is now encouraging residents to explore the updated timetables online. Users can search by area to view schedules relevant to where they live, work, study, or socialise.

“Could you help shape the future of the Powys Local Bus Network? We really want to hear from residents and bus users about the proposed new timetables.” Explains Cllr Jackie Charlton, Cabinet Member for a Greener Powys.

She highlighted the unique challenges of providing public transport in Powys, a vast county with low population density outside of its five key towns: Welshpool, Newtown, Llandrindod Wells, Brecon, and Ystradgynlais.

“We are eager to work with current and potential bus users to understand the barriers they face using public transport and find compromises and solutions that improve the timetables and passenger experience,” Councillor Charlton added.

The consultation provides an opportunity for residents to share their thoughts on the proposed schedules and other aspects of bus travel, such as fares and service accessibility.

To take part, visit the consultation page here. The deadline for submissions is February 13, 2025.