Brecon Labour councillors are calling for improvements to bus services between Brecon and Cardiff following a meeting with transport partners.

The changes to the T4 service, introduced last September, mean passengers must now change buses in Merthyr Tydfil instead of travelling directly to Cardiff.

Councillors Matthew Dorrance, Liz Rijnenberg, Chris Walsh and David Meredith met Transport for Wales, Stagecoach, Powys County Council and Bus Users UK on Monday, June 29, to discuss ongoing concerns about reliability and connections.

They said passengers were being affected by long waits, missed connections and unreliable journeys for work, education and essential services.

Following the meeting, partners agreed to carry out a review of four options to improve services: reinstating a direct service similar to the former T4 route; improving connections timetabling between the T4 and X4 services; better integration with train services, including concessionary bus passes and one ticket across the network; and considering whether another operator or public body should step in where the market has failed.

The review will report back to councillors by the end of August and will assess the cost and resources required for each option.

Councillors also raised concerns about the lack of Sunday services between Merthyr Tydfil and Cardiff, which they say continues to limit access to jobs, healthcare and leisure opportunities.

In addition, serious concerns were highlighted about the evening closure of Merthyr Bus Station, which they say raises both practical and safety issues for passengers needing to change buses later in the day.

Speaking jointly, the Labour councillors said: “We are absolutely determined to stand up for bus users across our community. People are being let down by a system that doesn’t properly join up.

“Yesterday’s meeting was constructive, but we were also very clear - passengers need to see real improvements, and quickly.

“We have secured agreement from all partners to carry out a focused review of the key issues affecting journeys, and we will be holding them to account to deliver meaningful change.

“Reliable, safe and joined-up public transport is not a luxury - it is essential for people’s daily lives, and we will continue to push until services meet that standard.”

The councillors confirmed they will continue to work closely with transport providers and Transport for Wales to ensure progress is made, and will provide updates to residents as the review develops.

Residents are being encouraged to share their views via an online survey and petition.