Bus services in Wales will receive a 6.2% increase in revenue support in the 2025/26 financial year, following publication of the Welsh Government’s final budget.
The £149 million weighs against £141 million allocated last year and is £6 million more than promised in the draft budget.
The Welsh Government will also provide nearly £50 million in capital funding to bus – £10 million more than indicated in the draft budget and £19 million more than in 2024/25.
Confederation of Passenger Transport Cymru Director Aaron Hill says: “We welcome news that the Welsh Government’s final budget includes an additional £6 million in revenue and £10 million in capital funding.
“This is a positive step that responds to CPT’s calls for greater investment to keep pace with the rising cost of running services.
“Buses are a vital part of Wales’ economy, carrying nearly 200,000 passengers every day and enabling people to earn, learn and spend in their local communities.
“They are the most popular form of public transport in Wales, accounting for three quarters of all journeys.
“Investment in buses delivers exceptional returns – every pound invested brings £4.55 in benefits to the environment, public health, and local communities.
“Yet funding for buses in the UK remains far below levels seen across Europe, and in real terms, core support has been eroded over the last decade.
“This additional investment is welcome, and we look forward to working with the Welsh Government to ensure this funding delivers maximum benefit for passengers, communities and the economy.”
The Confederation of Passenger Transport and Bus Users UK were among bodies who lobbied politicians after the draft budget offered only a 2% increase in bus funding.
Barclay Davies, Bus Users UK’s Director for Wales, says: “The extra funding for bus services is great news for passengers. Following the draft budget, there was a real possibility of cuts to the core bus network, with significant impacts on communities across Wales.
“This confirmation of additional funding will help secure the existing network, which is vital for passengers as we move towards a franchised system of services.
“Buses are the workhorse of the public transport network, accounting for 75% of all public transport journeys.
“They reach places other forms of transport cannot and provide accessible, affordable travel to work, education, shopping and healthcare. Continued investment in buses is essential if we are serious about inclusive, sustainable transport.”
