Transport for Wales (TfW) has commissioned a review of over 6,000 bus stops in the south-west of the country as that region readies to lead the rollout of bus franchising in Wales.
Such work is part of delivering what is described as “a modern, integrated and accessible bus network for passengers” in South West Wales. The review will assess accessibility features, customer information, and the physical condition of marked and unmarked stops.
The task has been commissioned by TfW in partnership with the Welsh Government, local authorities, and corporate joint committees. It will be carried out by Externiture and is expected to be completed by the coming winter.
Coming out of the review will be robust data, including an assessment of existing NaPTAN records to inform future investment and improvements. The project supports the Welsh Government’s Travel for All ambitions and the TfW One Network, One Timetable, One Ticket vision.
Speaking about the survey, TfW Executive Director for Regional Transport and Integration Lee Robinson says: “This work will enable us to make better decisions for passengers.
“By understanding the condition of our bus stops, we can improve customer information, strengthen accessibility, and move towards a more integrated, reliable bus network for communities across South West Wales.”
Adds Cabinet Secretary for Transport and North Wales Ken Skates: “Millions of bus journeys are taken by people across Wales every year, and this network is an integral part of our public transport system.
“This review will play an important role in shaping improvements. It will give us a more accurate understanding of what exists today so we can understand how to improve accessibility, safety and consistency for bus users in the coming years.”
Bus franchising in Wales is expected to commence rollout in 2027. Completion is due by 2030. Under the Bus Services (Wales) Act 2026, responsibility for customer information for bus services in the country transfers from local authorities to Welsh ministers, and thus TfW.
