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I'm bringing the proposed changes to the bus services in Anglesey and Gwynedd by Arriva Buses Wales to your attention, due to the drastic changes they have proposed that will change people's livelihoods. While I understand the complexities that have led to these changes, it is important to emphasize the importance of considering the needs of our communities, particularly the isolated areas, and finding sustainable solutions that balance financial viability and community well-being.

Acknowledging Challenges:

I recognize that the landscape of public transportation has shifted due to various factors, including post-Covid changes and the Menai Suspension Bridge diversion. These challenges have impacted the feasibility of maintaining existing services. However, I believe that creative and inclusive solutions can address these challenges without leaving our communities disconnected.

A Call for Consideration:

 

 

 

1. Serving Isolated Communities: I understand that funding constraints are a reality, but we implore you to at least consider serving the isolated communities along the B5109 and Llanddaniel Fab. While reduced frequencies might be necessary, maintaining connections to these areas, such as Llansadwrn and Llanddona, is crucial for their well-being and access to essential services.
2. Supporting Essential Facilities: M-SParc serves as a hub of economic and technological development. I ask that you consider preserving bus services to coincide with M-SParc's operation hours, particularly the 8:30 AM and 5:00 PM shifts. This will facilitate access for employees and visitors, contributing to the region's growth., in addition to support M-SParc's work towards reaching carbon footprint in the community.
3. Facilitating Healthcare Access: Ysbyty Gwynedd is a vital healthcare facility, with shift changes occurring around 7 AM and 7 PM. We urge you to take this into account when planning bus schedules to ensure healthcare workers can access reliable transportation.
4. Enhanced Evening Services for Beaumaris: Recognizing Beaumaris as a vibrant destination, we suggest extending bus services beyond 9 PM. This would not only serve residents but also encourage evening foot traffic, benefiting local businesses and cultural activities.
5. Mitigating Reduced Foot Traffic: The proposed changes may inadvertently lead to reduced foot traffic through towns and cities. We urge Arriva Buses Wales to consider the implications of this reduction on bus usage and its impact on community connectivity. Examples of Holyhead, Llangefni, and Bangor has seen significant reduction of foot traffic through it's town and city centres, although work is being done to increase it, reducing bus services would significantly impact the progress through these areas.
6. Seamless Integration: We encourage the exploration of connecting bus services with rail services at key points such as Bangor, Llanfairpwll, Valley, and Holyhead. This integration would enhance overall travel options, including rail services and ferry connections.

Collaboration for Solutions:

We believe that a collaborative approach, involving the perspectives of community members, local authorities, and Arriva Buses Wales, can lead to solutions that meet everyone's needs. By working together, we can navigate the challenges while preserving the vital connections that keep our communities thriving.

Conclusion:

We, the undersigned, are united in our dedication to safeguarding Anglesey's bus services and the well-being of its residents. We urge Arriva Buses Wales to reconsider certain elements of the proposed changes and to work with us to find practical, community-centered solutions that uphold both financial responsibility and the essential services our residents rely upon.