The Deputy First Minister has welcomed news that the shuttle bus service linking Rhoose train station and Cardiff Airport will continue throughout the summer and beyond.
Cardiff Airport last month announced that the bus link, which has been provided free of charge, was regrettably being withdrawn. Since that time the Welsh Assembly Government have worked closely with Cardiff Airport and the Vale of Glamorgan Council to explore how this important service could be retained, and have now announced that an agreement has been reached.
The Minister for Economy and Transport has expressed his delight that the service would continue to run, with no charge, until 31 October 2010.
“This service has proved to be extremely valuable, and has given people far greater choice in how they get to and from Cardiff Airport. I am therefore very pleased to confirm that our investment will enable the shuttle to continue,” Mr Jones said.
“The effort shown by all parties further underlines a joint commitment to the delivery of a sustainable public transport system for Wales.”
Cllr Jeff James, Vale council Cabinet member for planning and transportation, said: “I’m very pleased that the airport shuttle bus will now continue to run with help from the Vale of Glamorgan Council. It’s an important transport link in the Vale and one which we wish to see maintained in the future. It’s our partnership with the Welsh Assembly Government and Cardiff Airport that has made this possible.”
Steve Hodgetts, business development director at Cardiff Airport commented, “This is an excellent example of a partnership approach leading to an agreeable solution and all should be commended for the effort. We look forward to this approach leading to further improvements in public transport access for Cardiff Airport.”
The Assembly Government has agreed to provide funding of around £25,000 per year, with the Vale council providing £7,500. Cardiff Airport will provide the existing vehicle for use on the service until the end of October 2010.
This temporary arrangement will provide time for us to look at more sustainable options for keeping the service in the long term.
The contract to operate the service will be retained by the current operator, Veolia Transport Cymru to 30 June 2010 and discussions are ongoing between all parties to secure the service until 31 October 2010.
