In October 2023, the Welsh Government decided it no longer wanted to fund the Bwcabus public bus transport service, and the service was brought to an end without notice. As a result, many residents in the county who were completely dependent on the Bwcabus had no way to get to medical appointments, some were left without means to shop, some unable to travel to work, and many were isolated and had no means to socialise at all.
New Community Bus Service in South Ceredigion
Originally, the Bwcabus was created as an ‘on-demand’ service to connect communities in south Ceredigion that had no regular bus service. The aim was simple: to help people access essential public services. However, due to its popularity and the lack of other bus services, the Bwcabus gradually developed into a more regular service.
Unfortunately, when the service came to an end, no follow-up plan was offered by the Welsh Government or Transport for Wales. As a result, many rural residents were left without any connection to the public transport network – a situation that raised significant local concern.
Following a public meeting in Llandysul with Bwcabus users and supporters, it became clear to Elin that a more sustainable solution was needed. As a result, she began discussions with Dolen Teifi – a local community transport company already providing similar services in the area.
Standing room only - Elin Jones chaired a well-attended hybrid public meeting at Ysgol Bro Teifi to discuss the impact of losing the Bwcabus service. Cefin Campbell MS was also present, with many others joining online to share their concerns and ideas.
A New Solution
From those discussions, a strong proposal emerged, and Elin was able to present the idea to the Welsh Government’s Minister for Transport. Sufficient funding was secured to launch a pilot scheme for a new community bus service.
The Pilot Project
Dolen Teifi has now secured two 17-seater minibuses for the scheme. One will serve the Lampeter area, and the other is expected to serve the wards of Llandysul, Llandyfriog, Beulah, and Llangoedmor. In addition, community groups will be able to hire the buses in the evenings and on weekends.
During October, Elin held a series of public meetings to share information about the scheme, identify local groups who could lead on service delivery, and plan journeys that would benefit the community.
Next Steps
In summer 2025, the Welsh Government confirmed that the pilot project would receive funding for a second year. A number of routes are now running regularly.
To get the latest timetable or more information about the service, contact Dolen Teifi directly:
🔗 Dolen Teifi Community Transport - Dolen Teifi - Transport for All
📞 01559 362403