A First Cymru service leaving Swansea's Quadrant bus station (Image: Wales Online )

Swansea Council should not be afraid to step in and run bus services if needed, its leader said during a discussion about greater public control of the network. The Senedd has just approved franchising legislation which the Welsh Government hopes will create a more comprehensive, joined-up and reliable system and encourage more people to travel by bus.

Currently private bus operators decide most routes on a commercial basis, but this will change. Under the new system Transport for Wales will oversee bus franchises and, with input from councils and regional bodies called corporate joint committees, set routes, timetables and fares. Bus operators will then bid for contracts.

Councils in South West Wale

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