Bus Users UK has welcomed the inclusion of Wales in the latest Bus Passenger Survey from Transport Focus which shows an 84% overall passenger satisfaction rating for bus services in the country.

Satisfaction levels were also high for the bus driver at 88% and journey times at 84%. Punctuality, however, was slightly lower at 77% and there were widespread variations between England, Scotland and Wales when it came to value for money, with just 62% of passengers in Wales feeling their fares offered good value compared to 73% in England and 75% in Scotland.

A further area of concern highlighted across all three countries was the gap between the experiences of disabled and non-disabled passengers. While satisfaction rose across both groups, levels among disabled people remained lower.

Commenting on the findings, Barclay Davies, Bus Users UK Director for Wales said: “Value for money is a key concern for Welsh bus users as the cost-of-living crisis continues to impact on family budgets. Unlike England, Wales hasn’t seen a standard flat fare pricing structure but where lower fares have been piloted, passenger numbers have grown. We hope the forthcoming trial of capped £1 single and £3 day ticket fares for the under 21s being introduced from September will encourage more young people on board.

“Access to bus services, particularly for disabled people, is another area of concern. Whether ramps work or wheelchair spaces are available can mean the difference between being able to travel or not, which can have a huge impact on someone’s ability to live independently. Everyone, regardless of who they are or where they live, should have access to reliable, inclusive and affordable transport.”

Bus Users UK is urging all those involved in the planning and delivery of services to take note of the report’s findings and to build on the successes, including:

• Prioritising reliability and frequency to ensure services are genuinely useful and meet the needs of local communities.

• Enhancing accessibility so that all passengers can travel with confidence.

• Maintaining affordability while ensuring services remain sustainable and high-quality.

• Encouraging public involvement in shaping bus networks, so investment is directed to where it is most needed.

Barclay Davies added: “The results of ‘Your Bus Journey’ underline the importance of the bus to people and communities across Wales. We will continue to work alongside passengers, operators and policymakers to improve services for everyone.”