Bridgend County Borough Council Revives Key Bus Routes to Enhance Community Connectivity Bridgend County Borough Council is excited to announce the revival of essential bus routes aimed at improving community connectivity. This initiative is designed to provide residents with greater access to local services, amenities, and employment opportunities, fostering stronger community ties and enhancing overall mobility within the region.
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Bridgend County Borough Council has announced a partnership with First Cymru Buses Ltd to reinstate essential bus services, effective Monday, February 23. Residents in areas such as Pen-y-Fai, Kenfig Pool, and Mawdlam will benefit from hourly bus services, enhancing their access to crucial facilities, including education and healthcare.
This initiative underscores the council’s dedication to maintaining reliable public transport in response to community needs. Several villages will benefit from the return of these services, ensuring improved connectivity across the region.
Details of the reinstated bus services
The restored bus services will include the established Number 71 route, which connects Bridgend to Cymmer via Maesteg.
This service will divert through Pen-y-Fai on both inbound and outbound trips at no extra fare. Operating Monday to Saturday, buses will depart hourly from approximately 7:44 AM to 6:17 PM, providing residents with consistent transportation options.
Changes to service destinations
It is important to note that the Number 71 service will no longer directly serve the McArthurGlen Designer Outlet or the Princess of Wales Hospital. Instead, these locations will continue to be accessible via the Number 70 route, which will maintain its current path. Passengers using the Number 71 service can transfer at Bridgend Bus Station for a seamless journey to these destinations.
For those holding day tickets, free concessionary travel passes, or utilizing the Tap On Tap Off system, transfers to the Number 70 service at Bridgend Bus Station are allowed. In contrast, passengers with single or return tickets must either stay on the bus or pay an additional fare to reach their desired stops.
Introducing the new Number 63B service
Alongside the reinstatement of the Number 71 service, the council is excited to introduce the new Number 63B service, which will operate through Kenfig Pool and Mawdlam. This service will be part of the existing Number 63 route, connecting Bridgend to Porthcawl. The 63B service will run hourly from Monday to Saturday, with operating hours from approximately 9:41 AM to 3:39 PM.
Future prospects for bus services
While the current schedule offers essential connectivity, the council has indicated that the number of available journeys may be limited. Future service enhancements could be introduced, contingent upon funding availability. This situation emphasizes the significance of community engagement and support in sustaining and improving public transport options.
Councillor Neelo Farr, the Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Economic Development, and Housing, expressed enthusiasm for the reinstatement of these services. She highlighted the vital role public transport plays in residents’ lives, enabling access to employment, education, and healthcare. The collaboration among community members, ward representatives, and council officials has been crucial in achieving this outcome.
Residents seeking further information about the bus services or requiring assistance can contact the BCBC Public Transport Unit at 01656 642591 or via email at [email protected]. Detailed timetables for the reinstated services will be available from First Cymru Buses as the commencement date approaches.
