The implementation of Wales’ 20mph speed limit law has prompted Arriva to make comprehensive changes to every bus service in north Wales. The default speed limit, which became effective on September 17, has led to challenges in maintaining punctuality and has extended the duration of many journeys, prompting Arriva Wales to reassess routes and timetables.
The newly released timetable reflects alterations to service frequency, discontinued stops in some areas, and revisions to schedules. Arriva’s website states, “We have been reviewing our timetables since the introduction of the 20mph speed restriction. Following this review, we are now able to make a number of changes to our network across north Wales in January.”
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Specific changes include additional buses on the Llandudno to Bangor and Caernarfon route to allow for more time on journeys, enhancing service reliability. The Llandudno to Rhyl service will see added time during peak journeys to ensure reliability, starting January 14. The Llandudno to Prestatyn service will operate hourly with extended time allocated to each journey, along with modifications to the route, excluding stops at Llandudno Junction railway station and Lysfaen. The Bangor to Beaumaris/Glanyarfon service will operate every 75 minutes with additional time allocated.
Concerns about service reductions were raised in the Senedd on January 9, where Conservative MS Darren Millar highlighted the removal of a stop on the Arriva 51 service in rural Denbighshire. Trefnydd Lesley Griffiths acknowledged the ongoing discussions between the deputy minister for climate change, Lee Waters, and Arriva bus services regarding the challenges posed by the 20mph speed restriction. Griffiths recognized the importance of bus services as lifelines for many constituents and assured that discussions would continue to address concerns about potential cuts.