Community transport key for rural areas

9.45.26am UTC (GMT +0000) Wed 31st Jan 2007

Welsh Liberal Democrat AM for Brecon and Radnorshire, Kirsty Williams, wants more support for community transport schemes.

The local AM is calling for the Assembly's new powers to be used to reform community transport regulations, to make it easier for schemes to run successfully.

Ms Williams said: "Traditional bus services are often impractical in rural areas, as take-up is just too low. Community transport schemes, therefore, have an important role to play, and I want see some of the complexities and barriers in providing and accessing community transport removed, so that these sorts of services can expand.

"In particular, we should reform the rules so that paid drivers can be used on Community Bus schemes and that larger vehicles can be used. We should also open up the restrictions on some community transport operations so that, where appropriate, they can be used by a wider fare paying public to combat social exclusion.

"I know that existing schemes in the constituency offer a real lifeline to the communities they serve, giving local people access to key facilities and activities- to play sport, visit friends or to shop. They allow young people their independence, and free the elderly and disabled from dependence. The Government should do everything it can to support these services."