First refurbished buses welcomed to Powys in major step for public transport
These buses are the first of 15 vehicles to be comprehensively upgraded through funding provided by the Welsh Government, in partnership with Transport for Wales (TfW). The remaining refurbished buses will be delivered in phases between now and September.
The investment marks an important milestone in Powys' long-term commitment to improving local bus services and delivering a more modern, reliable and accessible network for passengers, supporting a stronger, fairer and greener transport system for communities across the county.
The refurbished buses bring a range of improvements for passengers, including:
- Modern audio-visual "next stop" information to support all passengers, particularly older people and those with disabilities
- Improved bilingual signage throughout
- More comfortable seating
- Newly installed CCTV systems to enhance safety
- USB ports for passengers to use during journeys
- Refurbished engines to improve reliability
- Euro 6 engines, producing significantly lower emissions than older vehicles
These first buses will be operated by Tanat Valley and Lloyds Coaches, with more joining the network in other areas and with other operators over the coming months.
This initiative represents a vital step in a wider transformation programme for bus services in Powys, being delivered in partnership with TfW. The programme aims to create a more integrated and passenger-focused network, with improved coordination of routes, fares and timetables, helping to deliver a transport system that is stronger in reliability, fairer in accessibility and greener for the future.
Cllr Jackie Charlton, Powys County Council Cabinet Member for a Green Powys said "Welcoming these first refurbished buses is a significant moment for public transport in Powys. This investment will directly benefit passengers, provide more reliable, comfortable and accessible journeys, while also reducing emissions.
"It is an important step towards building a public transport network that is stronger, fairer and greener, supporting our communities, improving inclusion, and helping us respond to the climate challenge.
"This is just the beginning of a wider transformation that will see continued investment in buses and services across the county over the coming years."
Lee Robinson, Executive Director for Regional Transport and Integration at Transport for Wales, said "The Bridge to Franchise network represents an important step in delivering a more integrated and accessible public transport system in partnership with Powys.
"It's a great example of what we can achieve when teams from across Transport for Wales and local authorities come together with a shared purpose.
"Working hand in hand with our supply chain, operators and colleagues in Powys, we've collectively delivered a joined-up approach that makes it easier for customers to move around, while keeping a clear focus on what comes next."
Barclay Davies, Director for Wales at Bus Users UK said: "It's great to be here in Powys for the handover of these refurbished buses. This £500,000 investment is improving comfort and accessibility, with better seating and clearer information for all passengers, including wheelchair users.
"If we want more people to use buses, we need to provide the facilities they expect. These improvements will help make journeys more comfortable and inclusive, and we hope they encourage more people to leave the car at home and give the bus a try."
Photo: Newly refurbished buses welcomed to Powys at County Hall, Llandrindod Wells. The buses are the first of 15 being upgraded to improve accessibility, comfort and reliability for passengers across the county.
L-R: Emma Palmer, Chief Executive of Powys County Council, Barclay Davies, Director for Wales at Bus Users UK, Cllr Jackie Charlton, Cabinet Member for a Green Powys, Elliot Swallow, Senior Programme Lead for Transport for Wales
