James Evans MS has pressed the Welsh Government to improve bus connectivity for rural communities in Radnorshire that currently have little or no access to public transport.

Speaking in the Senedd on Wednesday, 11 February, James highlighted the difficulties faced by residents in rural villages who are unable to access hospitals, supermarkets and essential services if they do not drive. He called for closer working between Transport for Wales and Powys County Council to ensure that rural communities, not just towns, are properly connected, including links into England and south Wales.

In response, the Cabinet Secretary for Transport Ken Skates MS confirmed that Transport for Wales is already working with Powys County Council and announced plans to trial a new X48 bus service linking Shrewsbury with several Powys communities. The service is intended to complement the Heart of Wales rail line and better connect areas not served by rail.

James Evans MS, Member of the Senedd for Brecon & Radnorshire, said: “For many people in rural Radnorshire, there simply is no bus service. If you don’t drive, you can be completely cut off from hospital appointments, from shopping, from work and from everyday life. That is not acceptable in 2026.

“We need reliable, long-term bus networks that serve rural villages as well as market towns. Connectivity in Powys must mean more than just rail links, it must include proper bus provision that people can depend on.

“I welcome confirmation that Transport for Wales is working with Powys County Council and trialling the new X48 service. But this must be the start of a wider effort to ensure no rural community is left isolated.”