Transport is essential to economic development but also for social justice. That is why Welsh Liberal Democrats want to support local authorities to improve their transport links. We want a coherent approach to transport policy by reducing the number of agencies involved in creating transport links by setting-up a regional transport authority, led by two or three local authorities.
We would encourage improved bus services in rural and poorer areas by reregulating buses, so that local authorities can ensure that all of their communities are served.
The Labour-run Welsh government is making it more difficult for people to use public transport. Recently, they announced a 25% cut to the grant that helps bus companies cover fuel costs, and now fares will have to rise. At the same time, they are spending over £1 million each year subsidising flights from one part of Wales to another. We would prefer to see this money spent on other forms of public transport.
Councils play a vital role in ensuring that the road network across Wales is suitablefor the modern age.
Across Wales, Welsh Liberal Democrats have been making it easier to get across Wales. In Newport, we invested £21 million to fix crumbling local roads in the city, long before the Welsh government woke up to the problem. This involved a one-off investment to bring the roads up to scratch and then on-going investment to ensure they never become so bad again. This has been so successful that we are planning to try it in Cardiff too.
Our approach will ensure better transport links.
